Information About Staph Infections

A staph infection is an illness caused by staphylococcus bacteria. The infection can occur on the skin or internally and affects human organ systems. Staph infections can develop through human skin contact, food poisoning, highly absorbent tampons and low immune systems.

Symptoms

• Visible staph infections usually have a red area that is swollen and sore. It can result in pimples or boils that could ooze pus. Sometimes a staph infection can affect inner organs and can become pneumonia or meningitis among other serious illnesses.

MRSA

• MRSA is methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus, a specific stain of staph that is highly resistant to some antibiotic medicines. It can be fatal.

Diagnosis

• Staphylococcus is diagnosed with a bacterial culture. Any area that has pus and blisters should be cultured. Any standard microbiological technique will identify whether it is a staph infection.

Treatment

• There are two types of treatment for staph infections. Pus drainage is the main surgical treatment, although more extensive surgery may be necessary to remove infected tissue. Antibiotics is the other treatment. Many antibiotics are effective.

Prevention/Solution

• Good hygiene, especially hand washing, is the main prevention of staph infections. Individuals who should be especially cautious are those who live in crowded situations, those who play sports and those who work in hospitals. Also, cleaning and treating cuts, abrasions and wounds immediately is advised.