by KYW's Karin Phillips

A unique web contest is underway among area school students to raise awareness of the MRSA superbug and how to prevent infection.

A number of organizations have created the "Students Fight MRSA" contest designed to give area youth in grades three through 12 the chance to learn about the serious health risk with MRSA skin infections and what they can do to keep themselves healthy.

Ruth Stoolman of Independence Blue Cross says MRSA is becoming a more common health issue in area schools. She says the web site is filled with games, even a chance to win some money, but most importantly, information:

"Things like proper hygiene, like not sharing their gym equipment or razors or towels, and especially a lot of information about washing their hands regularly. That's very key in preventing MRSA."

To learn more, go to www.studentsfightmrsa.com.