Dear Pharmacist: Staph Infections Can Mutate, Become Deadly

By SUZY COHEN

Question: My doctor says I have a “staph” infection and prescribed Bactroban cream (mupirocen). I’d like more information about staph. If you print this, please tell everyone that I’m a very clean person! — J.D., Birmingham, Ala.

Answer: Staph is commonly used to talk about Staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria that actually lives on you. It’s normal to find it on the skin (or other places) of healthy people, even those who stay very clean. Any open wound or scratch on your skin could be an entry point for this deadly germ, so it’s important to practice good hygiene, especially if you’re a healthcare worker. Kids who play sports should exercise more caution because they come in contact with each other and often share equipment, towels and razors. Taking showers after physical activity will help, as will keeping your hands clean.

Staph infections are not uncommon, but staph bacteria can mutate into a virulent form called MRSA (pro nounced mersa). A MRSA infection is dangerous because it can’t be easily cured with common antibiotics.

At my pharmacy, an alarmingly higher number of people have presented with staph infections. These look like either a pimple, a boil or ingrown hair; there’s usually redness, sometimes pus or swelling. The wound doesn’t always hurt. Staph infections are usually limited to the skin. The serious staph infections, including MRSA, can spark complications such as pneumonia, infections of the blood and toxic shock syndrome, and even lead to death.

I’m not trying to frighten you, but many people who develop a staph infection will “wait and see what happens,” and this is dangerous. You should always see your doctor or dermatologist for adequate care. But there’s good news now because Tec labs has just put out a new product called StaphAseptic and it seems to head off MRSA infections. It’s better than Neosporin or Triple Antibiotic Ointment, according to studies. One lab study showed that StaphAseptic killed over 99 percent of MRSA. It’s available over- the-counter. It’s sold at Rite Aid, Eckerd, CVS, Walgreens, Brooks, Krogers and Kerr Drug. Learn more at www.staphaseptic.com.

Did you know? Drinking pineapple juice after surgery can speed healing and reduce inflammation because it contains bromelain.

This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist. To contact her, visit www.dearpharmacist.com.

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