Wynantskill Union Free School District

PO Box 345 Wynantskill, New York 12198

Phone: (518)283 4679 x14  Fax: (518)283-3799

Superintendent of Schools

                                                ____________________                                                         

October 22, 2007

Dear Parent/Guardian:

            The media has recently covered several stories about Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) found in some local schools. We are sending this letter to give you information that has been shared with schools in the area and to let you know what preventative measures we are taking at Gardner- Dickinson, as well as measures you can reinforce at home.

Though MRSA is a type of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria that can be carried on the skin and in the nose of healthy people, it can cause infection when it enters the body. This type of staph bacteria is resistant to the class of antibiotics usually used to treat such infections, and needs to be treated with an alternative antibiotic. Staph infections commonly cause boils and soft tissue inflammation or may exhibit symptoms such as a small bump resembling a pimple or spider bite, which becomes redder and can develop pus drainage. If your child displays any of these symptoms or if you have concerns about your child’s health, please contact your family physician. It is very important to report a diagnosed or suspected infectious condition to me, the school nurse, as well.

            At school, we continue to reinforce good hygiene practices with our students,

as well as with our athletes, through our teachers and coaches. As a precaution, we have also increased our regular disinfecting procedures both in the building and on our buses.

 You can assist us in our efforts by taking the following precautions at home:

                                    ~ Wash hands with soap and water frequently

                                    ~ Cover all wounds with an appropriate bandage

                                    ~ Report any lingering sore or infection to your physician or nurse

                                    ~ Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, razors, and clothing

                Please read the enclosed information, provided by the Health Department. We also refer you to the following websites for further information as needed:

                                    ~ www.health.state.ny.us

~ www.cdc.gov

             If you have any further questions, please call me at 283-4600, ext.18.

                                                                                                Sincerely,

                                                                                                JoAnn Powers

School Nurse