Schools' alarm outpaces infection

But if it gets into the body, typically through a cut or scrape, it can cause potentially serious infections.

Q: What are symptoms of an MRSA infection?

A: MRSA should be suspected in skin or soft-tissue infections that are swollen, inflamed and painful. In the beginning, such infections might resemble a pimple or boil; many are initially mistaken for spider bites. If the infection becomes invasive, potentially serious symptoms can include fever, chills, and shortness of breath. An MRSA infection can be confirmed only through a skin or blood culture, and requires treatment with several antibiotics.

Q: How is it transmitted?

A: MRSA is most often spread by skin-to-skin contact, touching a contaminated surface, or through the sharing of personal items such as towels and razors.

Q: How can MRSA be prevented?

A: Vigorous and frequent hand-washing is the most effective way to stop MRSA transmission. Cuts and scrapes should be kept clean and covered with a bandage until healed. Health experts also discourage the sharing

of personal items.

Q: How about antibacterials?

A: It is believed that the widespread use of antibacterials actually has played a significant role in the development and spread of drug-resistant bacteria. For that reason, they discourage the use of antibacterials except in situations (hospitals, for example) where the risk is especially high.

For detailed information about MRSA, its treatment and spread, go to

at 215-854-4977 or fflam@phillynews.com.

Staff writers Lini S. Kadaba, Ed Colimore, Martha Woodall and Kathleen Brady Shea contributed to this article.