OCTOBER 26, 2007, NEWARK, NJ – The Newark Public Schools District has reported that a security guard has a confirmed case of the Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) infection, commonly called “staph”. The case was reported today from the Roberto Clemente School located at 257 Summer Avenue in the city’s North Ward.
In addition to the normal health and maintenance procedures followed by all district schools, Newark Public Schools took immediate action and instructed the employee to report directly to her own personal physician’s office; the New Jersey State Department of Health was notified; a facilities crew was dispatched to sanitize the building; letters were sent home to parents; and information addressing the issue was posted on the district’s website.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) indicates that it is not necessary for administrators to exclude students or staff from school as long as they follow infection control measures.
“The health and safety of our students and staff are important to us,” stated Superintendent Dr. Marion A. Bolden. “The district is working diligently to ensure that proper precautions and products are being utilized per the CDC’s recommendations. We will also continue to share timely and accurate information with our school community to ease their concerns,” she continued.
Staph bacteria is one of the most common causes of skin infections in the United States. Most of these skin infections are minor (such as pimples and boils) and can be treated without antibiotics. However, staph bacteria can also cause serious infections and students and staff exhibiting these symptoms need to be seen by a physician.
Contact: Valerie Merritt, Director of Communications
Ph: (973) 733-7338, 7360, or 7361
Fax: (973) 733-7526 or 8053
vmerritt@nps.k12.nj.us