Staph Skin Infections: Everything You Need to Know

According to the news Staphylococcus aureus (staph) skin infections are on the rise, and not only in their traditional breeding grounds of medical environments, but outside of them as well. Worse yet, the Associated Press stated on August 16, 2006 that many traditional drugs used to treat the infection are now useless due to the staph bacteria’s built-up immunity to it. (Marchione, 2006). As such, awareness as to prevention, risks, symptoms and complications should be raised in order to best prevent a further rise and fewer needs for antibiotics to find them.

Contrary to popular belief, staph is a common bacteria often present on the skin and/or in the nose. In fact, 15-40 perfect of healthy humans are carriers of the bacteria (Stanway, 2006). Staph bacteria can actually live on the skin without causing any apparent problems for the host. However, breaks in the skin due to wounds, bites, or the like can allow the bacteria to enter the bloodstream and cause more serious problems . (Staphlyococcal Skin Infections, 2006). Additionally, those with weak immune systems, dermatological diseases or some underlying illness can increase their risk of having difficulties with the staph bacteria.

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) good hygene is the number one preventing factor for staph infections. They list keeping hands clean by washing them thoroughly with soap and water, keeping cuts and abrasions clean and covered with a proper dressing (e.g., bandage) until healed, and avoiding contact with other people's wounds or material contaminated from wounds as keys to preventing infection. (2003).