No staph cases are reported in county

According to Morgan County Health Department officials, there have been no physician-reported cases of Methicillin-Resistant Staph. Aureus (MRSA) infections in Morgan County as of Monday.

That particular strain of staphylococcus is considered a "reportable" disease, meaning that any health professionals who encounter it should report cases to the appropriate public health officers.

Morgan County school officials informed parents that no cases of MRSA have been reported at any county school, and that staff is taking the proper precautions to protect the health and safety of local school children.

Custodial staff and others are working to ensure that all school buildings, including locker rooms, are properly sanitized, said the official school letter to parents. Students are also being familiarized with procedures to prevent spreading staph infections, which is borne by direct contact.

Health department nursing director Angel Bloom said her agency is encouraging the public to observe common-sense precautions to protect against MRSA. Wounds should be covered, personal items shouldn't be shared, and people should wash their hands frequently and thoroughly.

For more information about MRSA, contact the Morgan County Health Department at 304-258-1513. Questions about MRSA procedures in Morgan County Schools can be directed to Kristie Randall at 304-258-2430, extension 31.