- Toxic shock has long been known to be a risk for women using tampons, but there are other ways toxic shock can be spread. Certain contraceptives can cause it too, and men are also susceptible.
- Since the 1980s, women have been informed about toxic shock. They were told to be careful when wearing tampons, but there are more ways for this disease to spread. Women who use contraceptive sponges and diaphragms are also at risk. Men or women carrying the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria can contract this illness.
- Toxic shock cannot be spread from person to person, but the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria can be. Toxic shock will occur when this bacteria grows on a mucous membrane and produces a toxin, which is what usually causes toxic shock syndrome.
