Signs and symptoms PVL-SA should be suspected if an individual presents with the following: Pus producing skin lesions (boils/abscesses) which vary in severity and may be recurrent Cutaneous lesions ≼5cms in diameter, which require different treatment from smaller lesions and may be recurrent Cellulitis Pain that is out of proportion to the severity of the cutaneous findings Necrosis Infection Prevention and Control for affected people in the community The key principles of preventing and controlling the spread of PVL-SA infection in the community setting are: Early suspicion of infection, with rapid diagnosis and appropriate treatment Ensure lesions are covered with clean, dry dressings, which are changed as soon as discharge seeps to the surface Personal hygiene and good skin care (particularly those with eczema) Use separate towels and no sharing of personal items such as razors, toothbrushes, face cloths etc Ensure laundry of towels, bed linen, clothing using a hot wash (60 0C) where possible Regular household cleaning Avoid communal and recreational settings until lesions are healed if they cannot be adequately contained by a dressing. Certain facilities such as gyms, saunas, swimming pools etc should be avoided until the lesions have healed. Those who work in occupations where they may pose a risk of infection to others, such as healthcare workers, carers in nurseries, residential/care home staff, food handlers etc should be excluded from work until the lesions have healed. Refer to Appendix A – Risk Assessment Guide
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