How Does a Staff Infection Develop?
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Contact With Bacteria
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Recent studies have shown that 20 to 30 percent of healthy adults carry the bacteria that are known to cause staph infections (scientifically named Staphylococcus aureus). These bacteria accumulate in places that are common sources of human contact. Staph infections start with a "carrier" who generally does not know he is infected and is spreading the bacteria around. The bacteria can also become airborne, which makes their spread even more rapid. People who have to work in close quarters continuously--such as hospital workers, soldiers and athletes--are generally at a greater risk of contracting staph infections.
Entering Through Injury or Broken Skin
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With the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria present, a staph infection can begin to develop. On healthy skin, a staph infection has little chance of presenting a problem. However, when the skin is broken because of a scrape or bruise, the bacteria find it easier to enter the body. Cases of staph infection are more prevalent in cases of injury or surgery, because the body's natural defenses are lowered. When this bacterium enters through the skin, it can begin to cause rash-like symptoms, or lesions, boils or other skin irritations. Many times, these symptoms can be treated without medical attention. In some cases, however, people do not notice these infections, because they can resemble a pimple or common bumps; such infections can spread throughout the skin and become worse.
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Lowered Immune system or Defense
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Some people are at greater risk of developing a staph infection due to reasons other than broken skin or surgical wounds. HIV, burns, diabetes, bronchitis and even cancer put one at a heightened risk of contracting a staph infection. Many times, these infections get into the bloodstream, lungs, nose or throat, wreaking havoc on internal-organ tissues. Additionally, patients with lung infections can spread the staph infection through phlegm or mucus droplets that are ejected from the body. When a staph infection develops internally, it can cause many different reactions and types of infections inside the body.
The most effective method of preventing these staph infections is to avoid contact with the bacteria. That involves maintaining good hygiene, frequently cleaning surfaces that expeience high human traffic, and avoiding the sharing os personal items.
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