2 cases of MRSA confirmed at Naperville high school

NAPERVILLE, Ill. (WLS) -- The DuPage County Health Department said it was investigating multiple cases of MRSA, a form of staph infection, at a high school in west suburban Naperville.

School officials said two students were confirmed, treated and now cleared of MRSA infections. The first case happened in late August, the other at the beginning of September, officials said.

Officials said the two students are both members of the varsity football team.

"It's very scary because I work with people who have MRSA, a couple of people. I just know from open cuts it is very contagious and can go from person to person," said parent Dan Zurek.

Officials said the nursing staff consulted with the DuPage County Health Department and followed proper cleaning protocols. To stop the spread of the staph infection, the school's custodial staff wiped down the weight room, locker room, fitness center, training room and classrooms used by the football team.

Coaches will also have wipes for players to use to clean their equipment before heading to the locker room after practice. The school will also undergo a deep cleaning.

Parents said they hope the school can stop the infection from spreading to more students. District officials do not believe sports-related contact was what spread the infection, and said one student has already been cleared to return to full-contact play.

"You want to make sure the school is addressing it in the best way they can and that your kids are safe," said parent Mac Smith.

DuPage County Health Department spokesman Don Bolger said officials there were notified of the possibility of MRSA infection at Naperville Central High School Wednesday and began an investigation.

School and school district officials are cooperating with the investigation, Bolger said.

The school previously experienced a MRSA outbreak in 2010.