What is Staph Infection?

Staph infection, also referred to as staphylococcus or ‘staph’, is an infection caused by a type of bacteria. Staph bacteria are found on the human skin, in the noses of people and on objects like clothes, utensils, and toys. Staph infections can cause a range of symptoms from mild to severe, and can sometimes result in hospitalization, depending on the severity.

Signs and Symptoms of Staph Infection

Common signs and symptoms of staph infection can vary depending on the type. The most common type of staph infection is skin infection, which can appear as a boil, an abscess, cellulitis, impetigo, and more. Other signs of a staph infection include fever, chills, soreness, chest pain, and difficulty breathing if a staph infection has spread to the lungs.

What Causes Staph Infection?

Staph infection is caused by bacteria. The bacteria enter the body through open wounds, cuts or through contact with objects that have been contaminated by staph bacteria. Staph can also be spread through contact with other people who are carrying the bacteria, such as in a child care setting where objects, clothes and hands are often shared.

People who are most vulnerable to contracting a staph infection include those with weakened immune systems, young children, elderly individuals, people who use steroid medications, intravenous drug users, and those who have used antibiotics for a prolonged period. Unsanitary living conditions also increases the risk of staph infection.

Preventing Staph Infection

The best way to prevent staph infection is to practice good hygiene. This includes washing hands regularly, especially after contact with other people, disposing of used bandages properly and not sharing personal items like utensils and razors. It is also important to keep surfaces clean and avoid touching other people’s wounds or bandages.

In addition, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as a wound appears or if other signs or symptoms of a potential infection occur. Early intervention can help to prevent the infection from worsening and causing serious complications.

Staph infection can range from mild to more severe and medical attention is needed to detect and treat the infection. Practicing good hygiene, seeking medical help at the first signs of a potential infection and avoiding contact with others who are carrying staph bacteria are the best ways to prevent staph infection.