Is Staph Infection Contagious?

Staph infection is caused by a type of bacteria, known as Staphylococcus (or "staph"), which many people carry on their skin around the mouth, nose, genitals and anal area. Merely carrying these bacteria does not cause the infection, but when the skin breaks due to injury, these bacteria invade deeper into the body and cause infection. So, is staph infection contagious? Well, it is not until there is a contact with a weeping or draining wound. It is not air-borne, and it is most unlikely that it can spread through simple contact. Using contaminated items also increases risks of spreading the infection from person to person. Medical tubing devices may also be a cause of the infection. This type of infection ranges from mild boils to infections which are resistant to antibiotic, and it can also take up the form of severe flesh-eating infection.

Having dealt with the question, 'is staph infection contagious?', now let's have a brief study about its other important aspects; symptoms, treatment and prevention.

Staph Infection Symptoms

One major symptom of staph infection is any cut or abrasion which takes more time than normal and does not show any improvement in its recovery. The infection begins with small red areas which become tender and later show signs of swelling. Open sore is also one of the symptoms at times. Other staph infection symptoms include a localized collection of pus known as an abscess, skin boils or furuncle.

Staph Infection Treatment

Treatment is basically based on the identification of the type of staph bacteria that have caused the infection. The general method of treatment is to administer antibiotics. However, as said earlier, an infection caused by the methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteria is resistant to antibiotics thus, is treated with stronger ones such as vancomycin. For the right kind of medicines for curing a staph infection, it is wise to seek a doctor's advice. Other than medicines, surgical procedures to drain the wound, or for removing a medical implant which may have caused the infection could also be carried out.

Staph Infection Prevention

Inculcating hygienic habits is the main prevention method for a staph infection. People whose work involve coming in contact with different people, must wash their hands on a regular basis. Avoid touching open wounds with bare hands. The infection is extremely contagious and spreads rapidly through open wounds and bruises. This goes same for people who are suffering from any cuts or abrasions. It is advisable for them to cover their wounds with sterilized bandage as this can reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others.

Sharing personal items such as razors, towels, or combs increases the risk of spreading the infection. People must be extra careful while using razors, as a slight razor cut in the skin is all it takes for the bacteria to trigger off an infection.

Keep yourself well-hydrated by drinking at least 7 - 8 glasses of water everyday. This helps your body to get rid of pathogens, and also improves overall health.

The question, 'is staph infection contagious?', is not only related to humans, but also to dogs. This infection commonly affect canines. Red lesions, sometimes with pimples and scabs around them are the usual symptoms of staph infection in dogs. It is important to note that, you will not contract the infection from your dog.

I hope this article has answered the question, 'is staph infection contagious?' As mentioned earlier, the bacterium, Staphylococcus (or "staph") is a common resident in humans and dogs. So, until there is a contact with any infected wounds or contaminated articles, there are no chances of the infection to spread from one person to another. To prevent the spread of the infection, follow the necessary steps mentioned above and the required course of medicines prescribed by the doctor.