Staph Infections

Staphylococcus aureus is a type of bacteria that can be found on the skin or in the nasal passages of healthy individuals. It is generally harmless to most people, but can sometimes cause several types of bacterial infections. The staph bacteria may enter the body through cuts, sores, or other breaks in the skin. 

Common Types of Staphylococcus aureus Infections:

1. Skin Infections: Staphylococcus aureus can cause various skin infections, including impetigo (blisters or sores on the skin), cellulitis (painful redness and swelling), and abscesses (boils or pus-filled bumps).
2. Respiratory Infections: In some cases, staph bacteria can cause respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia or bacterial tracheitis (infection of the windpipe: the trachea).
3. Bloodstream Infections: Staphylococcus aureus can also enter the bloodstream, causing a serious infection known as bacteremia. This can be particularly dangerous and may lead to more severe health complications, such as brain infection, bone infection and sepsis (blood infection).

Staph aureus infection can be spread from person to person through direct contact or by sharing infected items such as towels or toys. It is very common in football locker rooms.

You should call the office for an appointment should any sign of a staph infection should appear. Antibiotics and/or incision and drainage of an abscess or boil may be necessary.

Symptoms:

The symptoms of Staphylococcus aureus infections depend on the type and location of the infection. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Redness, swelling, and tenderness at the affected site
• Painful or itchy skin rash or blisters
• Pus-filled bumps or boils
• High fever, especially in cases of severe infection like pneumonia or sepsis.

Treatment:

Diagnosis and treatment of Staphylococcus aureus infections are typically managed by doctors. Treatment options may include:

• Antibiotics: Antibiotic medications are used to control the infection. The choice of antibiotic will depend on the severity and type of infection and may require testing (cultures) to determine which antibiotics the bacteria are susceptible to. We have witnessed the development of methicillin resistant staph aureus (MRSA) infections over the years. MRSA is a type of staph bacteria that is resistant to certain commonly used antibiotics. Antibiotics are available to treat MRSA.
• Incision and Drainage: In cases of abscesses or pus-filled bumps, we may need to drain the area by making a small incision and removing the pus.

Prevention:

Preventing Staphylococcus aureus infections and their spread can be accomplished by practicing good hygiene habits, including:

• Regular hand-washing with soap and water or using hand sanitizer when soap is not available
• Keeping wounds clean and covered with sterile bandages
• Avoiding sharing personal items such as towels, razors, and clothing
• Disinfecting items that may come into contact with the bacteria, particularly if someone in the household has a known infection

When to Seek Medical Attention:

If your child has symptoms such as a persistent fever, rapidly spreading redness or swelling, or any signs of a worsening infection, it is important to contact us immediately.