Peyton Manning's Staph Infection

Here is the scary note of today.

It turns out that part of the setback in Peyton Manning's recovery from his knee injury was a staph infection.

With the controversy over Kellen Winslow's medical problem and with Tom Brady reportedly having multiple procedures to clean out a knee infection, this has officially become an epidemic in sports.

Last week it was reported that Kenny George, the 7-foot-7 center for UNC-Ashville had part of his foot amputated from a staph infection complication.

George developed MRSA, a form of infection that could be life threatening and has become a particular concern in locker rooms.

Bob Kravitz of the Indianapolis Star reports that the Colts superstar had a staph infection attack his bursa leading to two procedures on his knee complicating Manning's return to the field.

"Staph infections are an issue across our country in all walks of life,'' NFL spokesman Greg Aiello told Kravitz. "Our medical staffs are well aware of the national issue. They heard a presentation on it in Indy at the combine in 2006 from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control). And our medical staffs have discussed it at other meetings over the past several years and have shared information on prevention and treatment of staph.''

THE COLTS STATEMENT JUST ADDED: “Peyton Manning developed swelling in his left pre-patella bursa in late February. The swollen bursa was treated conservatively beginning in February with drainage and anti-inflammatory medication. The first signs of infection occurred while he was in New Orleans in July. It should be noted that infection developed prior to any surgery. Upon manifestation of the signs of infection, he immediately had surgery to remove the bursa sac. Concurrently, he was treated aggressively with antibiotics, and the infection was eliminated. The second procedure (tacking of the skin to eliminate the bursal space) was designed to ensure the complete and swift resolution of the bursal problem. The procedure was successful.

The second procedure was in no way, shape or form, related to the infection. The second procedure did not delay his rehabilitation or recovery materially. It also should be noted emphatically that, at no time, did he have MRSA. It is clear from consultation with our physicians, including infectious disease specialists, that staph is a societal medical problem. There is no empirical evidence that indicates to our physicians there is a problem related to resistant staph (MRSA) with respect to the Indianapolis Colts.”

Here is at least some good news. Noted doc James Andrews says Tom Brady is getting better and Patriots dispute stories that they are mad at their QB.