The Mars Area School District confirmed last week that a Mars Area High School football player has contracted MRSA -- methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus -- bacteria.

The district has cleaned and disinfected its sports equipment, practice/game areas and locker rooms and will do additional cleaning.

The infection is caused by staph bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics generally used to treat infections. The bacteria cause bumps, boils or pimples and are spread by direct contact or contact with equipment, towels or clothing that has been infected. Good hygiene, including washing hands with soap and warm water, helps to prevent the infection.

The district did not release any additional information about the student.

All Mars Area High School sports practices and events will continue as scheduled.

Parents were notified via a letter sent home with students Wednesday.

Mars Area parents who suspect that their child has contracted MRSA should notify the child's doctor and the school nurse immediately.