SUMMARY: The number of children hospitalized with methicillin-resistant staph infections (MRSA) has surged 10-fold in recent years, a study found. Unlike previous findings, most infections were caught in the community, not in the hospital. Almost 30,000 children were hospitalized with MRSA infections at the hospitals studied during the 10-year period. Most had skin or muscle infections, and 374 youngsters with MRSA died, though it isn't clear if MRSA was the sole cause.
STORY LINK: http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iRjX2lfHwiT-BJIbwtjFnIYiOYWwD9FOC0HG0

ANALYSIS:  The growth of MRSA as a community threat is further evidence of nature’s resiliency.  MRSA is a Staph skin infection, which generally starts as small red bumps resembling pimples, boils or spider bites.  These can quickly turn into deep, painful abscesses that require surgical draining.  MRSA bacteria spreads easily through cuts and abrasions and skin-to-skin contact.  Susceptibility includes those in hospitals or living in close quarters (nursing homes, dormitories, military barracks) and among athletes sharing razors, towels, uniforms or equipment.  Symptoms include redness, warmth and tenderness of the wound, pus (a yellowish-white fluid that may have a foul smell), and fever.  

Preventive steps include the classic recommendations:  wash often, shower after athletic events, wear shower shoes, do not share personal items, and check yourself for signs of unusual rashes.  Ask to have any skin infection tested for MRSA before starting antibiotic therapy. Some drugs that treat ordinary staph aren't effective against MRSA, and their use could lead to serious illness and more resistant bacteria.

- Donald A. Donahue, DHEd, Executive Director, Center for Health Policy and Preparedness