Democrat Dean Florez says he’ll pursue legislation to make the M.R.S.A. infection one that must be reported to the state.  He held a hearing about whether California is prepared to respond to a so-called “superbug” outbreak.  The Department of Public Health is considering making it a reportable disease—Florez says that data is necessary to prepare for a potential outbreak. 

 “How long are we going to debate that question and ultimately when are we going to have some conclusion for it being included on the list.” 

But the State Epidemiologist notes it takes lots of resources to collect and analyze the information. Health officials say there are two strains of M.R.S.A.—one is found in hospitals.  The other is called “community acquired” and is the one that often affects children and athletes.