[SutherlandMatters] Message from the Superintendent

[David Rogers]

Office of the Superintendent

401 McIntire Road Charlottesville, Virginia 22902-4596

Phone: (434) 296-5877 Fax: (434) 296-5805

www.k12albemarle.org

October 18, 2007

Dear Community,

Recent reports about the presence of a staph infection called Methicillin-Resistant

Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) in Bedford, VA has caught our community's attention. The

purpose of this letter is to help you to learn more about MRSA, steps you can take to stay

healthy and what our schools do to prevent the spread of infection.

MRSA is a common type of bacteria often found on the skin and in the nose of healthy people. It

is a common cause of skin infections. It normally does not cause disease unless it enters an

opening in the skin. It most often is spread by close contact with infected people or the things

they touch. It is not spread through the air. Click here to learn more about MRSA.

There are simple steps people can take to prevent MRSA and other staph infections:

* Wash hands with soap and water thoroughly and frequently.

* Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered.

* Avoid sharing personal items such as towels or sports equipment.

* Shower immediately after physical activity.

* Properly clean and disinfect sporting equipment.

* See a doctor if a sore or cut becomes red, oozes, causes pain or isn't healing.

Our School Division is taking steps to reduce the spread of germs and infection:

* We are increasing employee awareness by providing information about MSRA and

prevention.

* We have increased and enhanced custodial cleaning efforts in schools. Our standard

procedure is to disinfect restrooms, health clinics and locker rooms in schools daily.

Custodians also will now disinfect daily doorknobs and handles, sinks and counters in

classrooms.

* We have shared information about prevention and control of MSRA for athletic teams

with our athletic directors and coaches.

* We have asked school Principals to remind students about the importance of hand

washing and to review proper hand washing with our younger students.

While MSRA is found commonly in the environment and can't be eliminated, routine cleaning

and good personal hygiene practices can greatly reduce the risk of infection. I encourage you to

talk with your health care provider or a school nurse to learn what you can do to keep your

family healthy and of low risk for staph infections.

Sincerely,

Dr. Pamela R. Moran

Superintendent