Stanisław Jerzy Lec, a Polish poet, once said “All is in the hands of man. Therefore, wash them often.” Now, more than ever, does that statement hold true. With germs and infections spreading so easily these days, it’s important to take preventative measures to keep oneself safe.

Since the death of Alonzo Smith in the past week, several more cases of MRSA have popped up across Central Florida, including another Liberty High School student. The school, which had been declared clean by Osceola County health officials, has local parents worried and uncertain what to expect. Other cases that have appeared include one student at Stanton Weirsdale Elementary in Marion County, and four employees of Harris Corporation in Brevard County.

MRSA is contracted through skin/skin contact, as well as encounters with cuts and sores. There are several things that one can do to help prevent the spread of this disease.

Germs are everywhere, and the truth is that they’re not entertaining little green cartoons that sound like construction workers from Long Island. The family, friends, and school mates of Alonzo Smith learned that the hard way when the high school footballer died over the weekend from a staph infection known as MRSA. The acronym, which stands for Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, is a skin infection that commonly resides on the skin or in a person’s nose. It is rarely deadly, but when left untreated can cause serious health issues.

While an investigation is underway, it is unlikely that officials will be able to determine exactly where Smith contracted the infection. Bacteria is not limited to direct contact from an infected individual, but can be contracted off of common surfaces such as counter tops, door knobs, or exercise equipment.

Most MRSA infections can still be treated by antibiotics, but there are steps that can be taken to help prevent someone from contracting the infection to begin with. Always wear clean exercise clothing, and never reuse a towel without washing it. Damp towels are prime spots for germs and infections to gather, especially when left overnight in a locker. Use an antibacterial and antifungal soap like GymSoap when showering to help stop the disease before it develops. You should wash your hands regularly as our hands touch more than any other part of the body, and never share cleaning equipment such as towels, loofahs, or razors.

It’s important to know what to look for if you do run the risk of contracting MRSA or any other staph infection. With MRSA the infection often appears as pustules or boils that are hot, red, swollen, painful or have pus and can be accompanied by a fever. They most often occur at places where there have been cuts or abrasions.

Liberty High School, where Smith was a student, will be holding a ceremony on Friday night during their homecoming football game to honor the senior. His funeral is scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday at Assembly of God Church in Lake Wales. Well liked and known for being a good kid, it is certain that Alonzo Smith will be missed among the Kissimmee community that he has been a part of.