Symptoms & Causes of the Staph Virus

Staphylococcus aureus bacteria--more commonly known as "staph," can cause a variety of symptoms. These range from minor discomfort to life-threatening infections. There are several types of staph bacteria, including MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) and golden staph, the most common cause of staph infections. While each infection differs slightly due to the mutation of the bacteria, the symptoms and causes of staph are universal.

Bumps

Staph Infection (Image courtesy of Dr. Allyson Fisher)

Staph usually manifests itself in the form of small red bumps, which are often likened to a spider bite or pimple. As time progresses and the virus spreads, the bumps might develop puss pockets. Sometimes these swell and become extremely painful. The bumps might also develop into an open sore or pocket of raw flesh, much like an ulcer.

Impetigo

Staph Impetigo (Image courtesy of Dr. Allyson Fisher)

Impetigo, or crusting of the skin, is another symptom of a staph infection. This condition is characterized by small yellow or honey colored pus pockets on bumps that are sometimes red. Two types of this condition are caused by staph: bullous and non-bullous. Bullous impetigo means that the area is affected by painful blisters, while non-bullous impetigo is characterized by only pus pockets.

Life-threatening Infections

If staph enters the bloodstream or attacks any major organs, a life-threatening situation can develop. Staph can affect the heart valves, lungs, blood, brain, skin, joints or open and/or healing wounds. In any of these cases, a fever is usually present, along with irritated skin near the staph bacteria entrance. Immediate medical attention is required in this case.

Passing Germs

According to the Mayo Clinic, about one-third of people have staph bacteria either in their nostrils or on the skin. These carriers of the bacteria, however, might not be sick. In that case, they are called 'colonized,' not infected. These people can pass the bacteria, which is harmless unless it enters a cut or wound, through direct contact. This includes sharing razors and other personal hygiene items. A person with a weakened immune system is more likely to become ill from staph than a healthy person.

Risk Factors

Staph passes quickly in places where living quarters are in close proximity to one another. Prisons, nursing homes, hospitals, day cares, schools and athletic facilities are places where staph can spread quickly from one person to another. Other risk factors include having an invasive device in place, such as a shunt or catheter, that can make it easier for staph to enter the body.