Staphylococcus aureus Exposure Risks

Описание: Staphylococcus aureus, frequently referred to as staph, is a type of bacteria that has long been recognized as a cause of disease in humans. It is commonly found on the skin and hair, as well as in the nose and throat of people and animals.

In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 30% of people carry Staphylococcus aureus in their nose. While most of the time staph does not cause harm, it can sometimes cause infections ranging from minor skin infections to more serious infections that can be fatal. This can be especially true in healthcare settings where patients may have a weakened immune system or have undergone medical procedures that make them more susceptible to infections. CDC reports these infections may include:
• Bacteremia or sepsis when bacteria spread to the bloodstream
• Pneumonia, which predominantly affects people with underlying lung disease
• Endocarditis, which can lead to heart failure or stroke
• Osteomyelitis, which can be caused by staph bacteria traveling in the bloodstream or put there by direct contact following trauma.

These infections can be caused by different types of Staphylococcus aureus, including some that are resistant to certain antibiotics. Various types include:
• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
• Methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA)
• Vancomycin-intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (VISA)
• Vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA)

According to foodsafety.gov, people who carry staph can contaminate food if they don't wash their hands before touching it. Foods that are not cooked after handling, such as sliced meats, puddings, pastries and sandwiches, are especially risky if contaminated with staph.

These are just a few of the many things to know about Staphylococcus aureus and potential exposure risks. To learn more about this or other infection control, industrial hygiene, environmental, health or safety issues, please visit the websites shown below.

Clark Seif Clark https://www.csceng.com
EMSL Analytical, Inc. https://www.emsl.com
LA Testing https://www.latesting.com
Zimmetry Environmental https://www.zimmetry.com
Healthy Indoors Magazine https://www.healthyindoors.com