Dr. Holdren Otis
Methicillin Resistant Staph Aureus, also known as MRSA (Mer-sah), is a bacteria that has developed a resistance to antibiotics. This means that the normal penicillin used to treat staph infections no longer will kill the bacteria. The New York Giants tight end, Daniel Fells has a MRSA infection in his right ankle and has had multiple surgeries in the last week to clean it out. Reports say that he is being cared for in the intensive care unit.
Daniel Fells injured his toe and ankle and was given a cortisone injection, which helps calm down inflammation in the area. Despite the injection the pain in his ankle continued along with high fevers and he found himself admitted into the hospital 10 days ago. Fells has played for 7 years in the NFL but with the infection, his career is being seriously threatened.
Staph infections generally start as painful and swollen red bumps which may surgery to be drained. These infections can quickly become deep and potentially life threatening.
The Giants have carefully sanitized their locker rooms and equiptment and retrained their players and staff on how to prevent the spread of MRSA.
You can prevent MRSA infection by washing your hands frequently. This includes scrubbing for at least 15 seconds and drying them with a disposable towel. If you cannot get to the sink, hand sanitizer will do the trick as well. Also keep your breaks in the skin clean and covered. In athletics, shower immediately after contests, especially contact sports. Use soap and water and do not share towels. Wash clothes after each time they are worn on the hottest setting, use bleach if possible and dry them in a hot dryer.
MRSA is treatable with intravenous antibiotics if recognized early. Dr. Holdren Otis will be following Daniel Fells’ story and wishes him the best possible outcome. The Giants dedicated their win and took play to the next level for Fells, who received the game ball from his teammates yesterday.