Staphylococcus aureus, a highly pathogenic bacterium, is responsible for a wide range of infections affecting humans worldwide. This bacterium, so named because of its characteristic golden color in laboratory cultures, can cause a variety of conditions, from minor skin infections to severe systemic infections. To better understand this public health problem, learn from this article what are the causes and risk factors that favor the development of Staphylococcus aureus infections!
What is Staphylococcus aureus and how is it transmitted?
Staphylococcus aureus is a gram-positive spherical bacterium (coccus) belonging to the Staphylococcus family. This bacteria can cause a variety of infections, from superficial to severe and potentially fatal. Staphylococcus aureus it can be found on the skin and in the nose of about 30% of people without causing symptoms. The bacterium can temporarily or permanently colonize these areas and become pathogenic when it enters the body, usually through cuts or skin lesions.
The transmission of Staphylococcus aureus occurs mainly through direct contact with an infected or carrier person, but also through indirect contact with contaminated objects (e.g. towels, linen, medical utensils). It can also be transmitted through droplets of respiratory secretions in case of respiratory infections. It is important to note that some strains of Staphylococcus aureus, such as MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), have developed resistance to antibiotics, making treatment of infections with these strains more difficult and increasing the risk of complications.
About 20-30% of healthy people carry Staphylococcus aureus, and this bacterium is responsible for about 20% of nosocomial (hospital-acquired) infections. In addition, MRSA has become a major public health problem in recent years, with a high mortality rate and high treatment costs. (1)
Symptoms and diagnosis associated with Staphylococcus aureus infection
Common symptoms include:
inflammation; the pain; redness; warmth and swelling of the affected area; fever; chills; other associated symptoms which may include pus, abscesses or cellulitis.
To diagnose a Staphylococcus aureus infection, the doctor will first perform a physical exam and discuss the symptoms with the patient. If the doctor suspects a Staphylococcus aureus infection, he or she may collect samples from the affected area (for example, a culture of pus or a tissue biopsy) to be analyzed in the laboratory. Laboratory tests may include bacteriological culture, antibiotic sensitivity testing, and identification of the type of staph.
Causes and risk factors for Staphylococcus aureus infection
Risk factors for S. aureus infection are diverse and range from general, hospital-related, behavioral to antibiotic resistance.
People with weakened immune systems, those with chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer and heart disease, or with implanted medical devices are more prone to Staphylococcus aureus infections. (2)
Patients who are hospitalized or in other health care facilities are at increased risk of developing Staphylococcus aureus infections. This is due to exposure to bacteria, the use of invasive medical devices such as catheters and probes, and the vulnerability caused by their underlying conditions.
Some behaviors can increase the risk of infection with Staphylococcus aureus, such as sharing personal items, playing contact sports, and neglecting personal hygiene.
Appropriate use of antibiotics and close monitoring of patients at risk are essential in preventing the spread of resistant bacteria. Over time, Staphylococcus aureus has developed resistance to some antibiotics, making treatment of infections more difficult. Infections with antibiotic-resistant strains, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), are more difficult to treat and can lead to severe complications. (3)
Staphylococcus aureus is a major health concern due to its ability to cause potentially fatal infections and resistance to antibiotics. Understanding the causes and risk factors associated with this bacteria can play a crucial role in preventing and controlling infections. It is essential to promote proper personal hygiene, adherence to medical precautions and the promotion of judicious use of antibiotics. By being aware of and applying these measures, we can help reduce the incidence of Staphylococcus aureus infections and protect our health and the community as a whole.
Source of information:
– Journal of Global Antimicrobial Resistance, (1)
– (2)
– (3)
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2023-06-29 10:37:00
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