Downey High student has drug-resistant staph infection

A student at Downey High School contracted a methicillin-resistant staph infection, prompting school officials to send advisory letters home to parents today.

The student’s parent informed high school officials on Monday that the child had been diagnosed with MRSA. School officials did not reveal the identity of the student.

“The parent wanted to let us know, which we appreciated, and we wanted to give people a heads up,” Principal Phil Alfano said. The student was at home and Alfano said he understood the child was doing well.

The skin infections are a health concern because the bacteria are resistant to some antibiotics. If not treated, the infections can get into the bloodstream, causing serious illness or even death.

According to the letter to parents, custodians were cleaning areas which can foster MRSA infections such as weight rooms, locker rooms and bathrooms. Custodial staff were also cleaning instructional areas.