Hudson Valley High School Student Contracts Flesh Eating Bacteria

A student at a local high school has contracted MRSA, triggering an emergency plan to help keep students and staff safe from the flesh-eating bacteria.

Time Warner Cable News reports that a JV football player at Marlboro High School contracted MRSA, causing the department of health to step in and assist the school's medical staff. Classrooms, buses and other school areas are all being disinfected.

School Superintendent Michael Brooks told TWC that the school district is using an "abundance of caution" to make sure any areas that may have come in contact with MRSA are cleaned.  The bacteria is usually transmitted by skin to skin contact and sharing of personal items like towels and razors.

MRSA has been in the news lately because of the battle NY Giants' Daniel Fells has been having with the bacteria. ESPN reports that after six surgeries the tight end is expected to undergo several more procedures in an attempt to fight the infection that started in his ankle. Doctors thought they might have to amputate his foot in order to save his life, but now believe that his chances of survival are much better. Because of the damage done by the MRSA infection, however, it is doubtful that Fells will ever play football again.

WebMD says that MRSA infections aren't always this serious. In fact, a majority of the cases are easily treated. The trouble with the MRSA bacteria, however, is that it can be life-threatening in certain situations and extremely hard to treat even with potent antibiotics. Early warning signs of a MRSA infection include redness, pain, discomfort and swelling. Students are encouraged to see a medical professional if they experience any of these symptoms.