Gadsden State student diagnosed with MRSA

Associated Press - November 1, 2007

GADSDEN, Ala. (AP) - A Gadsden State Community College student has been diagnosed with staph infection. The school confirmed the illness yesterday (Wednesday). Renee Culverhouse, school president, said the 21-year-old student, whose name was withheld, withdrew from classes until further notice. Culverhouse said students, parents, and staff received letters informing them of the student's illness. Alabama health officials also were contacted. The germ (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) have recently been reported in Alabama schools. To reduce the possibility of getting a staph or MRSA infection, health officials have recommended washing hands, not sharing personal items such as towels and razors, keeping wounds clean and covered, and not coming into contact with others' bandages or wounds.