A staph infection is caused by a bacterium called staphylococcus. When the bacteria enters the body it can cause all kinds of illnesses. Staph bacteria release toxins into the body. It can also attack an area directly. Most of the time it is not life threatening; but if it gets into the bloodstream and reaches the heart or enters the urinary tract is can be fatal. Other cases are less complicated to treat. Staph may cause simple skin irritations like pimples or boils. It can enter the body and cause more serious illnesses like pneumonia or meningitis.
Around 30 per cent of all healthy adults have the bacteria which causes staph infections. Most of the time, it lives in a harmless state on the skin or in the nose. When the skin is damaged or a wound occurs staphylococcus enters the tissues and causes infection.
The best way to prevent staph infection is through good bodily hygiene. Showering every day and frequently washing the hands is the most effective way to combat the bacteria. Washing clothes after each wearing and keeping linens fresh and clean are also a great help in the fight.
Basic practices of first aid are also helpful in the case where the skin does become damaged or wounded. Wash the wound area with soap and water. Then dry it thoroughly and bandage it. Frequently change out the bandage to keep the area clean and dry. Use a topical antibiotic to fight against infection.
There are precautions that can be carried out in the kitchen and cooking areas too. Since staph infection can be spread through food poisoning it is important to use careful handling procedures when cooking and storing foods. Always wash foods thoroughly before storing them. Do not thaw foods at room temperature; allow frozen foods to thaw in the refrigerator. Wash pans and all tools used in preparing and serving foods immediately after the meal is done.
Staph infection enters through a point of weakness. Taking these precautions and developing good hygiene habits is essential to preventing staph infections from occurring. Most of the time if they do arise, they are treatable. Staph infection can be managed and taken care of effectively with early prevention. Unless it is a strand which is resistant to antibiotics, recovery is quick and easy through antibiotic treatments. Healthy habits in daily living and in food handling and preparation can many times avoid a staph infection all together.
Tags: Staph Infection