Foods to Avoid With Staph Infections

Staph infections are so common, they are almost impossible to avoid. They present in varying degrees: as a pimple, a boil, a skin infection or in any number of other ways.

About

• Staph bacteria are everywhere, even resting on the surface of our skin. They become harmful when they make entry into the body through an open sore.

Facts

• Staphylococcal infections are caused by a family of bacteria. The severity and symptoms depend on what body part they infect. Many are responsive to antibiotics.

Causes and Foods to Avoid

• Foods prepared by individuals infected with staphylococcal bacteria can potentially carry the infection. Foods prepared by someone with conjunctivitis, open sores, acne or other skin infections should be avoided. Staph bacteria thrive in warm food; avoid food that has been left out for two or more hours after preparation.

Symptoms

• If the infection was contracted through food, symptoms will include cramping, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Symptoms will appear suddenly only hours after consuming infected food and could last several days.

Treatment

• Staph infections are generally responsive to antibiotics. If infection was food-born, antibiotics will not be effective. In case of food poisoning, the patient should be monitored and treated for fever and dehydration until the infection is gone.