Staphylococcus

Staphylococcus is group of bacteria, known as Staph. This bacteria causes many diseases as a result of infection of various body tissues. It can also cause sickness indirectly by producing toxins responsible for food poisoning. Illness caused by staph can be mild, severe or potentially fatal.

Staphylococcus comes from (greek word) "staphyle" which means a bunch of grapes and "kokkos" which means berry. It was named after it since staph look like a bunch of grapes and little round berries under the microscope.

How does Staph infection looks like?





There are over 30 types of Staphylococci that can infect us but mostly, infections are caused by Stapylococcus aureus. Staphylococci can be found in the nose and in the skin of around 30% of health adults. The bacteria however do not cause disease in majority cases, but it can damage the skin that may allow the bacteria to overcome the natural protective mechanism of the body which leads to infection.

Anyone can develop a Staph infection, although certain groups of people are at greater risk, including newborn infants, breastfeeding women, and people with chronic conditions such as diabetes, cancer, vascular disease, and lung disease. Injecting drug users, those with skin injuries or disorders, intravenous catheters, surgical incisions, and those with a weakened immune system all have an increased risk of developing Staph infections.

What are the symptoms and signs of a Staph infection?

Staphylococcal disease of the skin usually results in a localized collection of pus, known as an abscess, boil, or furuncle. The affected area may be red, swollen, and painful. Drainage or pus is common.