Sporty Pathogens

Parents with kids who play sports usually worry about injuries, not dangerous pathogens. Yet a new report urges parents and schools to help prevent a spread of infections among young athletes.

In the US, about sixty percent of students between ages 5 and 18 play sports. That's about 36 million children who could benefit from a sports hygiene talk with their doctor during an annual physical. Kids should avoid sharing water bottles and equipment, but microbes also lurk in showers, locker rooms, gym mats, towels, and gym equipment. Plus, close contact sports such as wrestling or rugby and even basketball can transfer pathogens.

In fact, two herpes virus diseases named after sports are called Herpes gladiatorum and Herpes rugbiorum. They're caused by the same virus that causes cold sores. Once a person is infected, this virus sets up a silent infection in the nerves and can reactivate causing new skin infections at the same spot.

Much more alarming are community acquired methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus or MRSA which can become life threatening. They start with painful red bumps that can become deep painful abscesses requiring surgery. The bacteria can also enter the bloodstream infecting bones, joints, heart valves and lungs. That's why athletes with skin lesions should be examined by a doctor. And coaches should follow precautions with blood and other bodily fluids.

Protect kids by keeping their immunizations current, including their annual flu shots and the meningitis vaccine. Make sure they wash their hands after a match and facility equipment should be regularly sanitized to protect our young athletes.