Fw: Mayo Clinic Housecall: MRSA and other infectious diseases

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VOL. 8, ISSUE 43

October 23, 2007

Dear Subscriber,

Reports about a deadly "superbug" bacteria in schools may have you worried. The bacteria, called MRSA, short for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, is resistant to many medications, making it difficult to treat. Student athletes and young students are among those at risk. You can help protect your children, your other loved ones and yourself by taking a few minutes to learn about MRSA and staph infections and the best ways to prevent their spread.

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Sincerely,

The team at MayoClinic.com

FEATURED CENTER

Skin

Itchy skinWhether it affects a small or large area of your body, itchy skin can be uncomfortable and persistent. Here's how to stop the itch.

Dry air: Combating the effects of dry winter airIn the battle to stay warm, dry indoor air may leave you with annoying signs and symptoms. Here's how to win the fight.

Humidifiers: Vital steps for cleaningHumidifiers can provide soothing relief of dry skin and even asthma during the winter months. But don't let yours become a household health hazard.

For more information about these topics, visit the Skin Center.

Books & Newsletters

Half off Mayo's bestsellers! Get all three of our most popular books at an incredible 49 percent off when you buy the set. You'll get Mayo Clinic Healthy Weight for EveryBody, The New Mayo Clinic Cookbook and Mayo Clinic Fitness for EveryBody ... plus three bonus gifts for a healthier you!

Highlights

DHEA: Evidence for anti-aging claims is lackingA Mayo Clinic specialist who studies DHEA answers common questions.

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritisJuvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) is the most common type of arthritis in children. In most cases JRA is not a lifelong disorder.

Sprains and strainsSprains and strains — damage to ligaments and muscles — can result from overdoing physical activities. Learn ways to prevent this damage.

Crying baby? How to keep your coolAll babies cry, but the tears can take a toll. Here's help staying calm when the tears won't stop.

Alzheimer's: Managing sleep problemsAlzheimer's sleep problems affect both you and your loved one. Try these tips for getting both of you a good night's rest.

Timely Topics: Understand MRSA and other infections

Are infectious diseases on the rise? Editor's noteInfectious diseases on the rise? A Mayo Clinic expert tackles the question.

MRSA infectionFrom spotting symptoms to preventing infections, protect yourself from this virulent form of staph bacteria.

Staph infectionsThe bacteria that cause staph infections are everywhere, including on your skin and in your nose. Learn how to protect yourself from these potentially dangerous germs.

Hand washing: An easy way to prevent infectionHand washing is a simple habit that can help keep you healthy. Find out why hand washing is so important.

Infectious diseases: How they spread, how to stop themKids call them cooties. Adults call them germs. Learn how infectious agents spread and what you can do to minimize your risk of infectious diseases.

For more information about these topics, visit the Infectious Disease Center.

Featured Tools

Slide show: Labor positionsDuring labor, frequent changes of position can help you relax and stay in control of the pain. Be creative! These ideas may help.

Symptom CheckerUse this Symptom Checker to pinpoint possible causes of your symptoms.

Healthy Recipes

Chocolate pudding pies

Creamed Swiss chard

Portobello and blue cheese salad

Miso soup with watercress and shiitakes

For more recipes, visit our Healthy Recipes Center.

Now Blogging

StressStressed out? Information overload? Check out our new blog.

Alzheimer's diseaseDealing with the stress and challenges of Alzheimer's disease? You're not alone. Join our blog conversation.

Ask A Specialist

Mayo Clinic specialists answer questions from readers

Hypothyroidism: Can calcium supplements interfere with treatment? Melatonin side effects: What are the risks? Infant formula: Should I use tap or bottled water? Pulsatile tinnitus: What causes it? Ear candling: Is it safe?

Submit your own question to our specialists.

Treatment Decisions

Mastectomy vs. lumpectomy guideUse this guide to help you decide whether mastectomy or lumpectomy is your best choice in breast cancer treatment.

Health Digest

A wrap-up of this week's other new and updated information

Primary biliary cirrhosis Bed-wetting Newborn care: Common-sense strategies for stressed-out parents Myelodysplastic syndromes HIV/AIDS

For more of our reliable health information and tools, visit us at MayoClinic.com.

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