Staphylococcus aureus, also known as ‘staph’, is the name of bacteria that are commonly found in people, especially on the skin and in the nose. These bacteria do not usually cause any symptoms. If the skin or mucous membranes are damaged, infections can develop.
What are the symptoms of a staph infection?
The symptoms of an infection with Staphylococcus aureus can vary. On the skin, a staph infection can cause a rash, such as impetigo. It could also cause boils, inflamed cuticles, or mastitis (breast inflammation). Infections could also develop in a wound or deeper inside the body.
These bacteria do not usually cause disease. They can lead to infections in people with reduced resistance or an open wound.
Can infections cause severe symptoms?
If the bacteria end up in the bloodstream or deep inside the body, they can lead to septicaemia (blood poisoning), inflammation of the heart valves, abscesses, osteomyelitis (bone infections), joint inflammation and pneumonia.
Is there any treatment for a staph infection?
Staph infections on the skin usually heal on their own. In some cases, treatment with antibiotics is needed. It does not always work. One rare form of the bacteria is known as MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus): methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. MRSA is resistant to many antibiotics.
How does Staphylococcus aureus spread?
The bacteria usually spread through hand contact, or by coughing or sneezing. Staphylococcus aureus can also be transmitted via skin flakes in the air or on towels, sheets, clothing or sports equipment.
The risk that the bacteria will spread is highest in hospitals and nursing homes.
How can I prevent a staph infection?
You can prevent infection with Staphylococcus aureus by washing your hands well, and covering open wounds. Good hygiene is very important.
Can animals contract and transmit the bacteria?
Yes. The bacteria can cause the same diseases in animals as in humans. Common problems caused by staph infections in animals include udder infections in cows and joint inflammation in chickens and pigs.
Is Staphylococcus aureus dangerous during pregnancy?
A staph infection is not usually dangerous during pregnancy – not for the mother and not for the unborn child.
Can a person with Staphylococcus aureus go to childcare, school or work?
People who are carrying the bacteria can go to childcare, school or work as usual. Contact with an infected person is no problem for healthy people. However, if you have MRSA, it is important to avoid contact with vulnerable people. This applies if you are going to hospital or if you work in healthcare, for example.