Preventing the Spread of Infectious Disease in Organized Sports
Most sports-related infections are spread by skin contact, contaminated food or water, respiratory droplets or airborne particles. About 10 to 15 percent of injuries that force college-level athletes to take time off from playing a sport are due to infectious disease, according to the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics).
Common sicknesses spread by skin contact include Methicillin-resistant Staphyloccus aureus (MRSA); Group A Streptococcus; herpes simplex virus; tinea capitis (ringworm); tinea pedis (athlete’s foot); scabies, and lice.
Airborne infections that can be spread during athletic participation include the varicella zoster virus (chicken pox), measles and mumps, and other viral illnesses including influenza.
To minimize risks, the AAP recommends:
Teach student athletes proper personal hygiene, including proper laundering of uniforms and avoiding sharing of drinks or personal products, such as razors.
Develop a plan for cleaning and maintenance of sporting environment using guidelines such as those published by the American College of Sports Medicine.
Pay special attention to proper management of blood and other bodily fluids, just as hospitals have concentrated on preventing hospital-associated infections.
Routinely screen athletes during practices and before and after competitions.
Identify the problems/infections and unsanitary conditions early. We want students not only to participate in sports, but to have a good experience and remain healthy.
