Surfers Beware – Dangerous Levels of Staph Germ Found on West Coast Beaches

Two friends of mine have recently been hospitalized for staph infections. Believe me, this is NOT something you want to get. But, it sounds like the danger is not severe enough to keep people away.

But I’d think twice about building that sand castle inbetween sessions if  you have any open cuts or scrapes on your hands.

Via AP:

Scientists have found dangerous staph bacteria in sand and water samples from five beaches along the west coast of Washington state.

The germ, called MRSA, causes hard-to-treat skin infections and serious illnesses such as pneumonia. A previous study found it in ocean water along a South Florida beach.

Researchers say the germ is probably at other beaches as well. Doctors are not recommending that people avoid beaches, but say they should cover cuts or scrapes before digging in the sand, and shower afterward.

The study was reported Saturday at a microbiology conference in California.