Staphylococcal

Staphylococcal Infections are a group of infections caused by the bacterium Staphylococcus. They are commonly known for causing skin infections, but can also cause a variety of other diseases.

Causes

Staphylococcal infections are caused by staphylococcus bacteria, which are types of germs commonly found on the skin or in the nose of even healthy individuals. Most of the time, these bacteria cause no problems or result in relatively minor skin infections.

Types

There are over 30 types of Staphylococcus, but Staphylococcus aureus causes most staph infections, including skin infections, pneumonia, food poisoning, toxic shock syndrome, and blood poisoning (bacteremia).

Symptoms

The symptoms of a staph infection depend on the type of infection. Skin infections caused by staph bacteria include:

• Boils
• Impetigo
• Cellulitis
• Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome

Treatment

Treatment usually involves antibiotics and drainage of the infected area. However, some staph infections no longer respond to common antibiotics.

Prevention

Prevention measures include frequent hand washing, keeping wounds covered, and not sharing personal items such as towels or razors.

See also

• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
• Staphylococcal enteritis
• Staphylococcal food poisoning

Staphylococcal Resources
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