Staph infections are caused by bacteria (staphylococcus) that is found on the skin or in the nose. Where Staph becomes a concern is when it enters the blood stream which can occur through many places in the body such as the Urinary Tract, Lungs, or Heart or even female reproductive organs like the Vagina with usage of feminine products such as Tampons. This type of Staph infection is known as Toxic Shock Syndrome and can be fatal, although it is rare.

Most Staph infections occur in people who already have a weakened immune system or are hospitalized and are being treated for serious illnesses and diseases that affect the immune system health and function. However, people with healthy immune systems are also at risk for developing complications and infections as a result of the Staph bacteria. Most people already carry the bacteria so those who become infected, often become infected by what is already on or in their body although, Staph bacteria can be found on many inanimate objects such as pillow cases, blankets, beds, counter tops, or towels and it can be transmitted  from person to person.

What makes Staph such a risk is that it can survive many extremes that usually kill other bacteria such as extreme temperatures, drying  and high levels of salt. Also, cooking does not kill or destroy the toxins produced by Staph which can result in food-borne illnesses and food poisoning.

Common risks of Staph infection during hospitalizations are listed below.

• Patients with an already weak immune system
• Patients healing from open wounds as a result of burns, sores, and surgeries
• Diabetes
• Physical objects such as a urinary catheter, feeding tube, intravascular catheter, breathing intubater

Common skin infections caused by Staph bacteria are listed below.

• Boils are the most common type of staph infection. Boils are a pocket of pus that develop in places like hair follicles or oil glands and can occur anywhere on the body although they occur most often under the arms or around the pubic region and buttocks.
• Impetigo is a  contagious, often painful rash that can develop in people of all ages, although it is most common in young children and babies. The types of impetigo caused by staph bacteria usually feature blisters that ooze fluid and develop an off colored crusty outer layer.
• Cellulitis is a type of infection that causes the skin to look red and swollen,where the hair follicles create pits. The pits can be compared to the outer texture of a grapefruit or orange peel. Cellulitis develops mostly in the feet and lower legs of elderly people.

Treating Staph infections can be a bit difficult to treat because most varieties of Staph are resistant to one or more types of antibiotics. Antibiotics are the most common form of treatment for Staph infections but people can also take a proactive approach to maintaining good immune system health to prevent infections.

 Physicians will often check tissue samples, blood samples or nasal cavities to identify which variety of Staph it is that the person is infected with.

It is important to know your risks for infection. You may also want to read about Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and Lead Poisoning for further information. Prevention is the best medicine.

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