Staph Infection In Toddlers – Symptoms & Treatment Options

Staphylococcus aureus (staph) is a bacterium that lives harmlessly on human skin. Scalded skin syndrome is caused by staph and is usually seen in toddlers under the age of two years. It can cause an infection called impetigo when it spreads through cuts and scratches. Read on to know more about staph infection in toddlers.

What Is Staph Infection?

Staphylococcal infections, commonly called staph infections are caused by staphylococcus bacteria. Staph infections most often affect the skin and are treated with antibiotics. If left untreated, however, staph infections can lead to more serious illnesses such as pneumonia, cellulitis, and sepsis.

What Causes Staph Infections In Toddlers?

Bacteria cause staph infections. These bacteria live in the skin and mucous membranes. They usually do not cause any symptoms. However, when these bacteria multiply rapidly, they can cause a staph infection.

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How Do Staph Infections In Toddlers Spread?

Staph infections can spread through direct contact with infected people or objects. This includes sharing items such as toys, food, drinks, and clothing. It also includes touching surfaces that have been contaminated with staph germs.

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Symptoms of Staph Infections In Toddlers

Staph infections are often characterized by redness, swelling, pain, and pus formation at the site of infection. These symptoms can occur anywhere on the body, but are most common on the skin and soft tissues.
An eczema-affected patch of your child’s skin may develop staph infection. Staph can also cause bloodstream infections, impetigo (a type of school sore), bone infections, and pneumonia.
Scalded skin syndrome is caused by staph, most frequently affects young children under the age of two. Beginning as a lesion (sore) near the mouth or nose, it can soon turn into a bright red patch. It requires antibiotic medication since the afflicted skin may peel off in sheets when touched.

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Treatments for Staph Infections In Toddlers

There are several different treatments available for staph infections. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections. They work by killing off the bacteria causing the infection. If an antibiotic isn’t effective, other treatment options may be considered.

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Home Remedies for Staph Infection in Toddlers

Staph infections in toddlers are very dangerous because they can cause serious complications. Home remedies for Staph Infection in Toddlers include using natural ingredients like honey, lemon juice, salt, etc. Read on to know more about how to treat staph infections at home.

Wash hands with soap and water before touching the baby:

If you notice any redness, swelling, pus, or fever in your toddler, immediately take him/her to the doctor. You should also wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling your child.

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Avoid sharing utensils or toys with other children:

It’s very common for toddlers to share food, drinks, and toys with each other. This can lead to infections such as staphylococcus (staph) and streptococcus (strep). To avoid these infections, make sure that your child does not share his/her toys or utensils with others. Also, keep your child away from sick people and places.

Clean diaper area frequently:

If your toddler has an infection, wash the affected areas with soap and water. You should also clean the area after changing diapers.

Do not use alcohol based products:

Alcohol based products such as hand sanitizer, mouthwash, and lotions can dry out the skin and cause irritation. This will make it harder for your child to heal.

Honey:

This has antibacterial properties and helps prevent infections.

Lemon Juice:

It contains citric acid which kills bacteria.

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Points To Remember About Staph Infections In Toddlers:

• Despite being widespread, Staphylococcus aureus only only infects people when it can get inside through a cut or an open sore.
• Staph can result in infections of the skin, wounds, gastrointestinal tract, bloodstream, and pneumonia.
• Thoroughly washing your hands and avoiding skin-to-skin contact.
• Staph infections are often treated with antibiotics. The entire antibiotic course should be taken.
• MRSA or golden staph infections are staph infections that are resistant to some drugs but can still be cured with some medications.