Staphylococcus aureus
Staphylococcal Infections: Understanding the Prevalence and Impact of Staphylococcus aureus
Description
Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a Gram-positive bacterium that commonly resides on the skin and in the nose of healthy individuals. However, it can also cause a wide range of infections, from minor skin infections to life-threatening illnesses.
Associated Diseases
S. aureus is responsible for a vast spectrum of infections, including:
- Skin infections: Impetigo, cellulitis, abscesses, boils
- Respiratory infections: Pneumonia, sinusitis, bronchitis
- Bloodstream infections: Sepsis, endocarditis
- Bone and joint infections: Osteomyelitis, septic arthritis
- Toxic shock syndrome (TSS): A potentially fatal bacterial infection caused by S. aureus toxins
Did you Know ?
S. aureus is one of the most common causes of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). In the United States, approximately 500,000 people develop HAIs each year, and S. aureus accounts for up to 30% of these cases.
