Types of Wound Infection
Sepsis: Infection in chronic wounds can lead to sepsis if left untreated. Sepsis is defined as an inflammatory body response to infection, with severe sepsis and septic shock being the more severe forms. Sepsis can and does affect people of all ages. However, a 2012 Medical Study shows that the incidence and prevalence of sepsis increases with age. While people aged 65 years and older make up about one fifth of the American population, they make up two thirds of sepsis cases in hospitals and are approximately 20% more likely to develop sepsis than their younger counterparts. For more information about Sepsis and aging click here.
Staphylococcal Infections: Staphylococcus (referred to as staph) is a group of bacteria commonly carried on the skin or in the nose of healthy people. Although there are 40 types, the most common one is staphylococcus aureus.
Signs and symptoms of staph infection: If you or your child has a staph infection of an existing or new wound, they may have:
- swelling around the wound
- a wound that fails to completely heal
- a fever
- redness and heat around the wound
- yellow-coloured crusting (scabs) and weeping.
Prevention: Follow these steps to avoid a staph infection and prevent it from spreading.
- Keep your hands clean by washing them thoroughly with soap and water. Or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered with bandages until they heal.
- Avoid contact with other people’s wounds or bandages.
- Do not share personal items such as towels, clothing, or cosmetics.
Tips for Athletes:
- Cover wounds with a clean bandage. Do not touch other people’s bandages.
- Wash your hands well before and after playing sports.
- Shower right after exercising. Do not share soap, razors, or towels.
- If you share sports equipment, clean it first with antiseptic solution or wipes. Use clothing or a towel between your skin and the equipment.
- Do not use a common whirlpool or sauna if another person with an open sore used it. Always use clothing or a towel as a barrier.
- Do not share splints, bandages, or braces.
- Check that shared shower facilities are clean. If they are not clean, shower at home.