Staphylococcus, commonly called staph, is a type of bacteria that can cause a wide range of infections.

Staph bacteria are normally found on the skin and in the nose of healthy individuals, but they can also cause serious infections in hospitals and other healthcare settings. This comprehensive guide will help you understand how staph spreads, the types of infections it can cause, and how to prevent its spread.

How Staph Spreads

Staph bacteria can spread from person to person through direct contact with infected skin, wounds, or other bodily fluids. Some of the most common ways that staph spreads include:.

Touching an infected person’s skin or personal items, such as towels or clothing
Sharing personal items, such as razors or soap
Using contaminated objects, such as doorknobs or phones
Being in close proximity to an infected person when they cough or sneeze

In healthcare settings, staph can spread through contaminated medical equipment, such as catheters, ventilators, and surgical instruments.

Healthcare workers can also spread staph by not practicing proper hand hygiene and by wearing contaminated clothing or gloves.

The Types of Staph Infections

Staph can cause a wide range of infections, from minor skin infections to life-threatening bloodstream infections. Some of the most common types of staph infections include:.

Skin infections

Staph infections of the skin can cause boils, impetigo, and cellulitis. These infections can be red, swollen, and painful. In some cases, they may produce pus or other drainage.

Skin infections are usually treated with antibiotics and may require draining of any abscesses or infected areas.

Bloodstream infections

Sometimes, staph can enter the bloodstream and cause a serious infection called sepsis. This can lead to fever, chills, low blood pressure, and organ failure.

Bloodstream infections are usually treated with antibiotics and may require hospitalization for supportive care.

Pneumonia

Staph pneumonia can cause fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. It is more common in people with weakened immune systems or those who have recently had surgery. Pneumonia is usually treated with antibiotics and may require hospitalization.

Endocarditis

Staph can infect the heart valves, causing a condition called endocarditis. This can lead to fever, fatigue, and heart failure. Endocarditis is usually treated with antibiotics and may require surgery to replace the infected valve.

How to Prevent the Spread of Staph

There are several ways you can help prevent the spread of staph, including:.

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially if you are in a healthcare setting
Avoid sharing personal items, such as towels, razors, and clothing
Keep cuts, scrapes, and other wounds clean and covered until they have healed
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with your hands
Clean and disinfect surfaces, especially in healthcare settings
If you have a known staph infection, follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for preventing the spread of the infection to others

Staph infections can be serious, but they can also be prevented. By practicing good hygiene and following simple precautions, you can help protect yourself and others from the spread of staph bacteria.