Staphylococcus bacteria is a commonly found bacteria in our body. These are considered harmless for humans in most cases. However, this infection can turn fatal when it affects the inner body, such as blood, bone, lungs, and joints. Antibiotics are widely used against this infection.

Causes of Staph Infections

This bacterium can be found on our body parts such as the nose and skin. In case of a staph infection, it would certainly be from those bacteria with us. It is highly contagious and can survive extreme temperatures and stomach acid.

Symptoms

• Minor skin infections
• Boils on the skin (mostly under the arms or around the groin area)
• Impetigo (kind of rash, blisters with brownish fluid. These are contagious and often painful)
• Cellulitis (kind of infection affecting deeper skin)
• Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (toxins produced by the bacteria cause this condition which mostly affects children and babies)
• Food poisoning – staph bacteria are the major reason behind food infections. Multiplied bacteria would produce toxins in the food and cause sickness.
• Bacteremia
• Toxic-shock syndrome – one of the critical stages of the infection which may cause extreme fever with vomiting, muscle pain, and rash on palms

Risk Factors

• Weakened immunity
• Underlying health conditions
• People with Diabetes, HIV, kidney issues, a transplant, cancer, lung diseases and recent hospitalisation.
• Implanted devises
• Wound cuts

Prevention

• Keeping total hygiene
• Cover the surgical wounds
• Avoid sharing personal items
• Washing cloths
• Consume quality food

Diagnosis

• Medical examination
• Lab tests

Treatment

• Antibiotics
• Drainage of wounds
• Removing devices that may cause infection