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  • Staphylococcus aureus (staph) is a type of bacteria found on people’s skin.
  • Staph bacteria are usually harmless, but they can cause serious infections that can lead to sepsis or death.
  • Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a cause of staph infection that is difficult to treat because of resistance to some antibiotics.

Is this a reportable illness?

  • This is not a reportable illness to CDPH but consult with your school nurse to confirm this diagnosis with parents or the medical provider.
    • Please note: Clusters of 2 or more laboratory confirmed cases with infections in a 14-day period and with an epidemiological link should be reported to CDPH.

What do schools need to do next?

  • Sick person does not need to be excluded with the following exceptions:
    • Exclude if wound drainage cannot be well contained under a dressing
    • Exclude from high-risk activities such as contact team sports if the wound cannot be completely covered with a secure bandage that will remain intact throughout sports activity until completely healed
  • No action for close contacts.
  • Environmental cleaning and disinfection is recommended if the wound cannot be covered.