News & Studies

Players who reported body shaving are 6.1 time more likely to develop MRSA infections. Shaving genitals or the groin was associated with a higher infection risk than shaving other body sites.

Using soaps medicated with 4 percent chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) is more effective in preventing the spread of community-acquired methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) than non-medicated soaps, says a new study.

Community gym surfaces do not appear to be reservoirs for MRSA transmission, according to a study published in the March issue of the American Journal of Infection Control, suggesting that skin-to-skin contact, not skin-to-surface contact transmits the infection.

The National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) has issued a position statement on preventing MRSA and other skin diseases among athletes at all levels, from youth to professionals. The statement includes comprehensive recommendations for avoiding, identifying and treating fungal, viral and bacterial skin infections, some of which are life threatening.

Over the past several years, skin infections in sports have come to the forefront. Whether it is in professional or high school sports, the risks and problems remain the same. A few years back, the St. Louis Rams professional football team suffered an outbreak of a severe bacterial infection, Community-Associated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA). An infection that can be controlled when limited to one player, but when several team members are involved, it can spread quickly and become difficult to contain.

Three studies of MRSA among Texas high school football players conducted by the Texas Department of State Health Services appear to suggest that those who play on artificial turf are at increased risk.