6 a.m., Oct. 22, 2007--There has been an increase in skin infections nationally in recent months, many being staph infections and an increasing number the methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) form of staph.

The University of Delaware is alert to this problem and encourages the campus community to practice good hygiene as the best means to prevent infection, according to Dr. Joseph Siebold, director of UD's Student Health Services.

Staph bacteria are one of the most common causes of skin infection in the United States and are a common cause of pneumonia, surgical wound infections and bloodstream infections, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

MRSA has been most closely associated with health care facilities but also is increasingly associated with communities, such as schools and university campuses.

Staph bacteria, including MRSA, can cause skin infections that may look like a pimple or boil and can be red, swollen, painful, or have pus or other drainage. The infection is sometimes mistaken for a spider bite. It is always a good idea to have any infection resembling the above evaluated by a health care practitioner, Siebold said.

Siebold said the CDC guidelines note that the best way to prevent staph or MRSA skin infections is to practice good hygiene. He encourages people to keep their hands clean by washing thoroughly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Also, keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered with a bandage until healed and avoid contact with other people's wounds or bandages.

Finally, avoid sharing personal items such as towels or razors.

These tips also are helpful in avoiding the spread of cold and flu germs, Siebold said.

UD Student Health Services is housed in Laurel Hall. The telephone number is 831-2226.

For additional information on community-associated MRSA, see the CDC site at [www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dhqp/ar_mrsa_ca.html].