In most situations, S. aureus is harmless. However, if it enters the body through a cut in the skin, it can cause a range of mild to severe infections, which may cause death in some cases.
Why is Staphylococcus aureus so dangerous?
It is the leading cause of skin and soft tissue infections such as abscesses (boils), furuncles, and cellulitis. Although most staph infections are not serious, S. aureus can cause serious infections such as bloodstream infections, pneumonia, or bone and joint infections.
What happens if you get a staph infection?
Most of the time, staph does not cause any harm; however, sometimes staph causes infections. In healthcare settings, these infections can be serious or fatal, including: Bacteremia or sepsis when bacteria spread to the bloodstream.
Can a Staphylococcus aureus infection be life threatening?
Staphylococcus aureus infections range from mild to life threatening. However, the bacteria can travel through the bloodstream (called bacteremia) and infect almost any site in the body, particularly heart valves ( endocarditis) and bones ( osteomyelitis ).
Are there any longer lasting infections with methicillin resistant staph?
There is a possibility for longer lasting or more severe infections with Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) if the initial antibiotic prescribed is not capable of killing the bacteria. Includes printable fact sheets on Staph, MRSA, CA-MRSA, HA-MRSA, VISA/VRSA, and more.
What should you avoid if you have a staph infection?
Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, sheets, razors, clothing and athletic equipment. Staph infections can spread on objects, as well as from person to person. Wash clothing and bedding in hot water. Staph bacteria can survive on clothing and bedding that isn’t properly washed.