From the district….

Dear Parents, Guardian and Staff:

It has just come to our attention that a student who attends the Mahopac Middle
School was recently diagnosed with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA). The student is currently under a doctor’s care and is recovering. Upon learning
of this, we promptly informed the Putnam County Health Department and are working
with them to minimize any risks to students and to employees.

Under the circumstances, I believe it is important that all families and staff be provided
with information about the infection and about actions that can be taken to help prevent
its transmission.

Staphylococcus aureus (SA) is a germ (bacterium) that frequently causes skin infections.
Methicillin – resistant staph aureus is a strain that is resistant to certain antibiotics.
MRSA was first identified more than 40 years ago and has steadily been increasing in
frequency across the country. It is only recently that it has received considerable media
attention.

Staphylococcal infections are usually spread from one person to another by close skin to
skin contact, usually through contaminated hands. Community- acquired MRSA (CA-
MRSA) most commonly causes skin infections, i.e. pimples, boils etc. If medical
treatment is indicated and an appropriate antibiotic is prescribed, almost all superficial
skin infections heal. In rare cases, particularly in a person who has other medical
conditions, a more serious infection can occur. MRSA skin infections are usually not
worse than typical staphylococcus infections in previously healthy school children or
healthy adults. If you have any concerns about your child’s health or your health, you
should contact your local health provider.

The simplest and most important measure to prevent the spread of infection is to use
good personal hygiene, which consists of hand washing, proper care of skin injuries and
skin infections, and avoiding sharing personal items such as razors, headgear and towels.
Health care providers have allowed children who do have MRSA infections to go to
school as long as they are not ill and as long as wounds can be fully covered by bandages.
Please follow your local health provider’s recommendations.

The District has taken all precautions recommended by the Putnam County Health
Department as a result of this isolated case at the Mahopac Middle School. We have
already begun cleaning and sanitizing appropriate areas in the building, including
classrooms, bathrooms, athletic areas and cafeteria.

David A. Chapman
Assistant Superintendent for Business