Possible case of MRSA at Bethel Park High School

Administrators at Bethel Park High School are taking precautions after reports that someone at the school may have been diagnosed with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA.

The principle sent a letter to all parents letting them know that there is an unconfirmed case of MRSA at the high school.

In the email, Principal Dr. Zeb Jansante said, "While I have not been officially notified either by the Allegheny County Health Department or a physician that this case is confirmed, we are responding as if it were, and to that end, we contacted the Allegheny County Health Department to make sure we are following proper cleaning procedure."

According to the Allegheny County Health Department, it’s not necessary for schools to inform parents when a case of MRSA occurs.

Some parents, however, said they are grateful the school is being proactive in warning people about the possibility.

"I was happy the school was so quick to alert everyone. I don't know much about MRSA, but the most you can ask is that everyone is aware of it right away,” Kelly Friedberg said.

MRSA is a bacterial infection that can cause skin infections, pneumonia and bloodstream infections. It can be spread through contact with personal items or surfaces that have been exposed to the bacteria.

School officials are urging students to wash their hands frequently, shower immediately after physical activity and wash personal items on a daily basis.

Officials said they are treating this as a confirmed case of MRSA and they are taking necessary precautions to keep the student body safe.

Cox Media Group