How is staphylococcus transmitted in children under one year old. Staphylococcus in children: symptoms, development of the clinical picture and methods of treatment. Damage to ENT organs

04.10.2021

Staphylococcus is a fairly common bacterium in children, but infection with some types of strains has a fairly powerful course. About 27 strains of staphylococcus bacteria are known to medicine, but only 4 of them have a real danger to a person of any age. Don't panic right away. You should consult a doctor and determine what type of staphylococcus the baby is infected with.

By staphylococcus it is customary to mean a microorganism from the Staphylococcaceae family (from the Greek “grain”). The bacterium is named staphylococcal due to the shape of the cell structure, which are born in the form of a ball. They are compactly arranged with each other like a vine. The danger of microorganisms lies in the ability to produce and secrete pathogenic organic components (toxic elements and enzyme compounds) that disrupt the healthy functioning of the whole organism. It is easiest for children to get sick with a pathogenic infection. It is they who are more likely to have aggressive factors from the outside.

Frequent cases of “neighborhood” of staphylococcus infection with salmonella or Escherichia coli against the background of severe dysbacteriosis. bacterial infection in children is to reduce the protective function of immunity.

The form of infection can be different (temporary or permanent). Carriers of staphylococcus bacteria can appear to be both sick and healthy people. The course of the disease takes place in varying degrees of severity, due to the differing classification of the pathogen itself.

Due to the production of toxic enzymes, staphylococcus aureus can cause sepsis, meningitis, various abscesses, inflammatory processes of soft and hard purulent nature, pneumonia.

Infected newborns are most often exposed to extensive sepsis, which is explained by the maximum generalization and progression of the inflammatory process. Staphylococcal infection penetrates and develops not only in the cavitary part of the intestine, but also in hard tissues (bones, cartilage), on the skin, in the oral and nasal cavities, in the respiratory tract along the descending and ascending lines.

Strains of staphylococci show incredible resistance to the effects of the most advanced, therefore, there are risks for the child to develop an inflammatory process with the formation of internal and external foci of abscess. It is important to identify the disease in time, determine the type of pathogen and begin immediate adequate therapy.

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Types of staphylococcus and stages of development during infection

Staphylococcus in children, including the earliest age, occurs quite often, therefore it occupies a leading position among all diseases of an infectious nature. Diseases of a bacterial nature can cover entire groups of organs and systems of the body:

respiratory tract (lower, upper)
gastrointestinal dysfunction (complete, partial)
inflammation of hard and soft tissues
infection of the urinary system

Bacteria are detected by bacteriological examination of feces, a detailed biochemical blood test, with scrapings of the surface of damaged skin. Medical tactics have a multi-stage approach to the problem, and the duration of recovery is proportional to the neglect of the situation and the type of staphylococcal strain.

Saprophytic staphylococcus aureus

This type of infection is rarely diagnosed in children and is considered the least dangerous disease. The main lesions are the urinary system, including the skin and mucous tissues. When timely and adequate is prescribed, then getting rid of the disease can occur in a couple of days.

epidermal type of staphylococcus

The infection can affect the surface of the skin and mucous membranes. It is found in the eyes, in the nose, in the internal pharynx. Children in the postnatal period, in a state of prematurity, with reduced immunity are prone to the disease. The presence of epidermal type staphylococcus in medicine is considered and does not pose a serious danger to a healthy child. If the child's well-being does not suffer, then only local therapy is prescribed.

Staphylococcus aureus

Represents a serious danger to human life and health. It is especially difficult to tolerate in childhood. There is an erroneous opinion about the existence of Staphylococcus aureus only in the intestinal cavity. With more thorough laboratory studies, it is found in the mouth, on the skin, in stool tests. When, against the background of the course of staphylococcus, the child's well-being remains unchanged, then it is not advisable to prescribe treatment, the body fights harmful microorganisms on its own.

Treatment of a bacterial infection is a long and difficult undertaking. This is due to the high resistance of pathogenic microorganisms:

bacteria can withstand temperatures up to 800 degrees for about 15 minutes
staphylococcus is not amenable to treatment with most of the strongest medicines
when dried, it remains viable for up to six months
resistant to hydrogen solution and even sodium chloride

It should be noted that not all types of staphylococcus adversely affect the human body and cause pathogenic changes in it. If a child has a stable and high immune response, then his well-being can remain unchanged even with the slightest excess of the bacteria content. When infected with Staphylococcus aureus, babies of an early age or the neonatal period should immediately seek medical help, followed by hospitalization.

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Symptomatic complex and features of the manifestation of infection

Staphylococcus bacteria, depending on the type and localization of infectious foci, has various clinical signs. They share common local and general external manifestations of infection, and each of them can be expressed in a certain intensity.

Local symptoms of staphylococcus development

Skin rashes in the form of abscesses (boils, abscesses). Often diagnosed in children in the nose and throat. A serious manifestation of the disease is evidenced by the appearance of large spots, carbuncles and other skin formations.
Organic mucus interspersed with pus (phlegm, snot). indicates damage to the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract along the descending and ascending lines.

General signs of the development of staphylococcus aureus in children

Problems associated with severe intoxication. Strong, high temperature, including slender about 37.3 degrees. The child may experience hyperemia or excessive pallor of the skin. The result of severe intoxication in children is almost always profuse vomiting and a feeling of constant nausea.
Gastrointestinal dysfunction, expressed in liquefaction of the stool, an increase in the volume of the abdomen, the accumulation of intestinal gases and other manifestations.
Allergic reaction to products of oxidative and excretory enzymes as a result of vital activity.

Signs of staph infection in children in the nose and mouth

These anatomical zones most often become the site of localization of the staphylococcal environment. This is due to the peculiarity of the penetration of bacteria, because children carry all the pathogenic microflora into their mouths. The cause of infection can be typical non-compliance with hygiene standards or poorly processed vegetables and fruits. The vital activity of toxic flora in the nose provokes the occurrence (inflammation of the maxillary sinuses).

Infection, to a greater extent, manifests itself in a state of acute catarrhal tonsillitis, ulcerative stomatitis, tonsillitis for any type of course:

severe sore throat
swelling of the tonsils, redness of the tonsils
rashes in the mouth in the form of whitish sores (severe stomatitis)
difficulty breathing (mucosal swelling)
secretion of organic fluid with impurities of blood or pus
malaise and general signs of intoxication

Staphylococcal bacteria in the intestine

If the infection began to multiply rapidly in the intestinal cavity or on its walls, then a powerful reaction from the gastrointestinal tract will inevitably follow in the form of an acute form of colitis, followed by development into enterocolitis. The main symptoms of intestinal damage:

pain in the epigastric zone of unclear localization
the nature of the pain is intense, wandering or bursting
a strong feeling of heaviness, increased gas formation, bloating
stool contains bloody or purulent inclusions
the occurrence of false urges to empty the bowels, loose stools or constipation
nausea, vomiting, general loss of strength, possible fever

Prevention is the best way to protect yourself

To identify the pathogen and make a correct diagnosis, a number of laboratory tests are prescribed to study biological material (blood, feces, urine, scrapings from the surface of wounds). At the time of detection of staphylococcus, mother's milk is examined (with breastfeeding). If the tests give a positive result, then the mother continues to feed with milk against the background of special therapeutic treatment. This approach allows the child to recover as well.

If the baby has conjunctivitis, then purulent material is taken from the mucous membrane of the eye. The same goes for skin rashes. If the infection affects the mucous cavities of the nose and mouth, then scrapings from the throat and nose of the child are taken right in the walls of the laboratory immediately. This improves the quality of studies and the validity of the data.

Staphylococcus is treated only with antibiotics. After diagnosing diseases and identifying the disease, the doctor selects a group that can have a positive impact on improving the child's condition. Then a course of rehabilitation therapy is carried out and recovery occurs.

The duration of the disease depends on the form of staphylococcus aureus. Infection with Staphylococcus aureus can lead to severe sepsis and require surgical intervention. The main guarantee of successful treatment is an accurate diagnosis based on the signs of the clinical picture and an adequate selection of a medication course with antibiotics.

Preventive actions:

after a successful birth, it is important to leave the hospital as soon as possible
significantly limit the contact of newborn babies with other people
observance of the rules of elementary hygiene of mother and child

Staphylococcaceae has many strains, but only a few of them can cause serious harm to a child's health. It is important for parents to monitor the child's lifestyle and prevent infection in all possible ways. When infected, you should not self-medicate, since the diagnosis of the disease is carried out only by a laboratory method.

Jun 9, 2016 Violetta Doctor

The baby, being born, is faced with many microorganisms. They can be beneficial and form the intestinal microflora, or they can cause serious diseases. The latter include Staphylococcus aureus. It is poorly treated, and you can get it anywhere.

This disease affects 70% of the world's population. It affects mainly children of the first year of life. Staphylococcal infection is easier to prevent than to cure unpleasant consequences, and for this you need to know the specifics of the disease.

Staphylococcus aureus is a dangerous disease that is very difficult to treat.

What is called a staphylococcal infection?

Staphylococcal infections are caused by bacteria from the Staphylococcaceae family. These are very common microorganisms, of which there are 27 strains. Most of them are not dangerous to humans, but there are 4 species that cause serious illness and complications, and sometimes even death.

For an adult healthy person, a staphylococcal infection does not pose a threat, it develops only in a weakened body. The risk group includes:

pregnant and lactating women;
Small children;
HIV-infected;
people with chronic diseases.

Most often infection is diagnosed in newborns. For them, it poses a particular danger, because the child's body cannot yet fight the infection, the baby's immune system is imperfect. Often staphylococcus aureus is infected in hospitals and maternity hospitals.

This is a very persistent infection. At room temperature in the room, it exists for up to six months. Bacteria adapt to antibiotics and stop responding to them, so drugs for the treatment of staphylococcus are constantly being improved.

Small children are not in vain at risk. Staphylococcus bacteria produce toxins that significantly poison organs and systems. The consequences can be absolutely any inflammatory processes - from disruption of the intestines to disorders of the central nervous system and staphylococcal sepsis, blood poisoning. That is why, when making a diagnosis of "staphylococcal infection", therapy takes place under the close attention of a specialist, without self-treatment.

Types of staphylococci

Saprophytic, epidermal, hemolytic and Staphylococcus aureus are recognized as hazardous to human health. Their symptoms vary greatly:

Saprophytic staphylococcus. It is found infrequently, of all four the least dangerous. It mainly affects the excretory organs, provoking an inflammatory process in the bladder and kidneys. In addition, it settles on the skin and mucous membranes. A baby with this type of staphylococcal infection is worried about pain in the lower abdomen, frequent urination. Manifestations are easily confused with signs of cystitis, although the treatment here will be completely different. Saprophytic staphylococcus is diagnosed in children on the basis of a urine test. It is treated quickly, in a few days.
Epidermal staphylococcus. It lives on the skin and mucous membranes of a healthy person, does not manifest itself in any way with strong immunity. It is found in the eyes, nose and internal pharynx. It affects newborns and debilitated babies, especially after undergoing surgical interventions. Microorganisms can be detected by a doctor based on an examination of the patient. Treatment of epidermal staphylococcus aureus is prescribed locally. Its danger is that, penetrating through cuts, abrasions, it gives complications in the form of inflammation of the joints and blood vessels.

This is what the symptoms of staphylococcus on the skin look like

Hemolytic staphylococcus. Penetrates through the mucous membranes, the symptoms are similar to acute respiratory infection. To determine it, bakposev is taken in the mouth or in the nose. This type of staphylococcus reacts poorly to antibiotics.
Staphylococcus aureus. The most dangerous of all. It affects any organs, settles in the mouth, on the skin, in the intestines, provoking inflammation and severe complications. Staphylococcus aureus bacteria are very tenacious - they calmly tolerate boiling, freezing, are not susceptible to chlorine, alcohol and hydrogen peroxide, to many antibiotics.

It is impossible to acquire immunity to Staphylococcus aureus, they can be infected again after being cured. Getting into the body with strong immunity, staphylococcus goes into a latent (hidden) state in order to become more active during the period of illness.

It poses the greatest danger to young children. It is found in stool tests, on the skin, in the oral cavity. If an older child does not have symptoms of inflammation, then treatment will most likely not be prescribed, because the immune system copes with the infectious agent on its own. Newborn babies should be treated for Staphylococcus aureus in a hospital, as the consequences can be unpredictable.

How can a child become infected with staphylococcus aureus?

Staphylococcal infection is present in the body of almost any person and comes to combat readiness in case of illness, weakened immunity. It lives absolutely everywhere, so maternity hospitals are closed for planned preventive maintenance.

What are the ways of infection with staphylococcus a child:

Airborne transmission of infection - when talking, sneezing, coughing.
For newborns, infection can come from the mother. For example, through cracks in the nipples during breastfeeding or childbirth. Staphylococcus can live on food. Getting into the breast milk of a woman in labor, it infects the baby.
If the child has received a birth injury - through non-sterile medical supplies.
Household way in case of non-compliance with hygiene. A curious baby tastes everything, and from dirty hands, the infection may well enter the child's body. Infection occurs through shared toys, dishes, household items.
Contact with the patient's skin. Communication with a sick child in a kindergarten, school, clinic.

Symptoms and diagnosis of Staphylococcus aureus

liquid stool;
vomit;
lack of appetite;
lethargy, weakness;
pustules and boils on the epidermis;
pain in the nasopharynx;
puffiness.

To determine the type of bacteria, the child needs to be tested for bacteriological culture.

When a staphylococcal infection actively develops in the body, severe intoxication occurs, causing more serious symptoms:

an increase in body temperature up to 40 ° C;
stomach ache;
fainting;
convulsions.

If the infection occurred with food, then such symptoms will appear within a few hours after eating. Staphylococcus aureus is diagnosed in children by blood tests, urine, feces, scrapings (bakposev) and symptoms that struck the baby.

Treatment of staphylococcus in children

Treating a staph infection is not easy. It is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis in a timely manner and prescribe adequate therapy, which includes:

topical drugs;
antibiotics;
gargling;
immunomodulators;
vitamins.

If the defeat of Staphylococcus aureus is critical and can lead to blood poisoning, the patient is given a blood transfusion. In the most severe cases, surgery is indicated.

If a child has a staphylococcal infection, it is necessary to process and disinfect household items, clothes, bedding, dishes that the baby has come into contact with. The patient is isolated to prevent new infections from entering his body. The mother will be taken to the hospital with the baby. It is important for infants not to stop breastfeeding, because it helps fight the disease.

Medications

Drug therapy includes drugs:

Antibiotics (Amoxiclav, Clarithromycin). Only a doctor should prescribe. Staphylococci are able to adapt to any medication, so the list of anti-staphylococcal antibiotics is constantly updated. It is important to use new generation tools.
Immunomodulators (Imudon, IRS 19). They are needed to restore the strength of the child, increase immunity. This is a fundamental point in the treatment - only a healthy body is able to resist a staphylococcal infection.

When prescribing antibiotics, it is necessary to make an antibiogram to determine the sensitivity of staphylococcus to certain drugs of the drug group. Without this, it will not be possible to cure the disease, because staphylococci are very resistant to many medicines.

In mild forms of diseases, the use of an antibiotic may be contraindicated, so the decision to prescribe the drug is made only by a doctor. In difficult cases, Immunoglobulin is used to increase immunity (for very weakened babies).

External means

Local preparations are used in combination with antibiotics in the treatment of abscesses and postoperative wounds. As a rule, they are not used separately. Staphylococcus aureus is very sensitive to ordinary brilliant green. Another effective drug is Staphylococcal Bacteriophage. They treat infected wounds and boils.

The throat and nose are washed with antiseptic solutions, for example, Furacilin. A special agent is applied to abscesses and boils. As a rule, Vishnevsky ointment, 70% alcohol solution, brilliant green, hydrogen peroxide are used. For rinsing, lubricating mucous membranes (for example, throat), Miramistin, Hydrogen Peroxide, silver solution, Iodinol are used.

Folk methods

Alternative methods should be used only in combination with traditional treatment prescribed by a specialist. Before using them, it is better to consult a doctor. Usually these are ointments, decoctions, compresses. Many herbs have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Natural antibiotics include: currants, apricots, lingonberries, cranberries, viburnum. They are given to older babies in the form of mashed potatoes, decoctions or fresh. It is useful to use a decoction of wild rose.

Rosehip decoction has immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

There are several traditional medicine recipes that have proven themselves in the treatment of Staphylococcus aureus:
(we recommend reading:)

A decoction of the collection of herbs: 4 tablespoons of bird cherry fruits, 3 tablespoons of currant leaves, 3 tablespoons of raspberry leaves, 2 tablespoons of oregano, 2 tablespoons of thyme herb, 2 tablespoons of plantain, 2 tablespoons of coltsfoot, 3 tablespoons of licorice root.
Freshly squeezed juice of celery root and parsley in a ratio of 1:2.
Baths from a series.
Garlic compresses. Garlic pour water 1:3 and leave for 1 hour. The lotion is applied to inflamed wounds.

What is fraught with staphylococcal infection?

Staphylococcus aureus is the causative agent of more than 120 diseases. It causes many severe and dangerous complications:

epidermal lesions - phlegmon, furunculosis, abscess, folliculitis, pyoderma;
inflammation of the mucous membranes - conjunctivitis, barley;
sepsis, blood poisoning;
inflammation of the bone marrow;
inflammation of various organs and systems - pneumonia, bronchitis, pharyngitis, brain abscess, osteomyelitis, endocarditis, meningitis, enteritis;
with very strong intoxication, toxic shock and even death can occur.

Disease prevention

Any disease is easier to prevent than to treat later. The same applies to staphylococcus aureus. Prevention of infection is very important, including measures to increase the immunity of the baby:

you need to observe hygiene and teach this to the child;
timely treat wounds and cuts with an antiseptic;
there is a vaccination against staphylococcus, which contributes to the emergence of a special antimicrobial anti-staphylococcal immunity;
eat right and healthy, take vitamins (Multi-Tabs, Alphabet), do not eat questionable foods;
breastfeed the baby for at least a year, because mother's milk gives the baby the necessary immunity;
lead an active lifestyle, play sports;
if there are animals at home, make sure that the pet does not have abscesses, and treat them in time.

Heads the TOP of children's infectious diseases. Especially often it is diagnosed in infants and newborns.

Staphylococci are a whole group of bacteria belonging to the Staphylococcaceae family. They are facultative anaerobes, i.e. organisms that grow in an environment without oxygen. However, oxygen itself is not harmful to the life of bacteria.

The cells of these microorganisms are spherical in shape; when dividing, the bacteria form colonies resembling bunches of grapes. Microbes in the course of their life activity produce endo- and exotoxins, as well as enzymes that negatively affect the cells of human organs and systems. It is the action of these toxins that causes the symptoms observed in a sick child.

General information about staphylococcus aureus

The source of the spread of an infectious agent are patients and carriers of pathogenic strains. Of particular danger to others are patients with and open foci of purulent inflammation. The causative agent is transmitted by airborne droplets, contact-household and alimentary routes. Preschool children most often become infected by eating contaminated food and through contact with sick peers.

The group of diseases united by the term "staphylococcal infection" includes pustular inflammation of the skin, digestive disorders in the intestines, pathology of the ENT organs, inflammation of the bone tissue, etc. The infectious agent can be detected in blood tests, feces, and scrapings from the surface of the skin.

Not all varieties of staphylococci pose a serious threat to adults and children. Moreover, often pathogenic cocci of this family cannot cause serious harm to the child. For example, the presence of bacteria on the mucous membranes of the throat does not lead to serious consequences if the baby has a sufficiently high level.

The greatest danger is, especially in the active phase of the disease in infants. The relatively high incidence among newborns is due to the fact that at the beginning of life, the child does not synthesize IgA immunoglobulin, which largely determines the level of local immunity.

Note:Staphylococcus aureus got its name from the ability of bacteria to synthesize a pigment that colors colonies that settle on solid nutrient media in a characteristic golden or orange color.

Classification of staphylococcal infection

According to the accepted international classification, the following types of the disease are distinguished:

staphylococcal;
septicemia with an unspecified pathogen;
septicemia due to Staphylococcus aureus ;
septicemia due to other specified staphylococci.

Note:Staphylococcal infections are usually sporadic (irregular) in nature, but there are epidemics in maternity hospitals and hospital departments.

Types of staphylococci detected in children

There are several types of staphylococci:

saprophytic;
epidermal;
hemolytic;

Saprophytic is detected in children relatively rarely. It affects the skin and mucous membranes of the organs of the genitourinary system, causing acute inflammation of the urethra and bladder. This infectious agent is considered the least dangerous for the child; with adequate therapy, it can be eliminated in just a few days.

Epidermal can multiply on any part of the skin and mucous membranes of the ENT organs and eyes. It provokes conjunctivitis, purulent urinary tract infections and postoperative complications. In severe cases, endocarditis and even sepsis are not excluded. At risk are weak and premature babies, as well as children who have undergone various operations. For a child with high immunity tension, it is not dangerous; the very fact of the presence of epidermal staphylococcus aureus on the mucous membranes of children is regarded as the norm if the baby is feeling well. Skin lesions are an indication for local therapy.

Hemolytic staphylococcus can cause purulent inflammatory processes in many organs. It affects the skin, organs of the urinary system and the endocardium. Against the background of this infection, with reduced immunity and in the absence of treatment, the development of a septic condition is possible.

Staphylococcus aureus is the most pathogenic for humans, since it can cause severe purulent inflammation in almost any tissues and organs. It is characterized by high virulence (pathogenicity) and resistance to drying, boiling, solar ultraviolet radiation and the effects of antiseptics such as hydrogen peroxide and ethanol.

A specific feature of this pathogen is the ability to synthesize the enzyme coagulase. The infectious agent quickly adapts to antibiotics, acquiring resistance (immunity). Of particular danger are methicillin-resistant strains that are resistant to beta-lactam (cephalosporin and penicillin drugs). The detection of this infectious agent in the analysis of feces or washings from the mucous membranes is the basis for starting complex therapy only if the child's well-being worsens.

Symptoms of staphylococcus in children

Clinical manifestations of staphylococcal infection are very diverse.

They depend on the following factors:

type of pathogen;
the age of the child;
immune status;
prior sensitization;
habitat of microorganisms;
the presence of concomitant diseases;
the general condition of the baby.

Important:the most pronounced reaction from the immune system is observed when infected with Staphylococcus aureus.

The task of the doctor is the timely formulation of the correct diagnosis and the appointment of adequate therapy. At the same time, parents need to inform the specialist in detail about changes in the child's condition. Self-medication is unacceptable, since it can cause the development of serious and even life-threatening complications for the baby.

It is customary to consider 2 forms of staphylococcal infection in children - early and late. In the first case, clinical symptoms develop already a few hours after the infectious agent enters the child's body. In the second - signs of the disease appear only after 2-5 days.

The main symptoms of staphylococcus in children:

Important:if treatment of staphylococcus aureus is not started in a timely manner, children may develop a generalized septic lesion.

Diagnostics

It is impossible to establish the nature of the infection (type of pathogen) at home, therefore, when the first symptoms of a staphylococcal infection appear in a child, it is strongly recommended to immediately seek medical help.

To identify an infectious agent, the doctor first prescribes a series of tests. A laboratory study of blood, feces, purulent discharge and washings from the skin and mucous membranes is carried out. It is advisable to take the material in the acute phase of the disease, since microorganisms are most active during this period, and it is easier to detect them.

Important:the presence of staphylococci in the blood does not yet speak of. If the reproduction of bacteria is not observed, then we are talking about the so-called. "transient bacteremia".

The next step is to establish the sensitivity of the detected strain of staphylococcus to. This is necessary for the appointment of adequate antibiotic therapy.

Important:in the course of a standard blood test, Staphylococcus aureus is not always immediately detected. The most informative laboratory diagnostic method is bacteriological culture.

Serological blood test

The material for the study is the blood serum of a sick child. The diagnosis is considered confirmed if specific antibodies to an infectious agent are found in it.

PCR

Polymerase chain reaction is an additional analysis that allows you to identify single molecules of Staphylococcus DNA.

Analysis of mother's expressed breast milk

This study is necessary if staphylococci are found in the feces of the baby, in an amount exceeding the permissible norms. The analysis allows you to identify a possible source of infection (microorganisms are easily transmitted to the baby from the mother).

A positive result is a good reason for the immediate transfer of the child to artificial milk formulas.

Note:the slight presence of bacteria in the baby's body does not yet allow us to talk about a staphylococcal infection, especially if the child's health does not suffer. Treatment in such situations is not required.

Treatment of staph infection in children

Treatment of staphylococcus in children is prescribed after assessing the overall clinical picture and the totality of symptoms and laboratory data.

Local treatment of staphylococcus in children

Local treatment involves the treatment of wounds (including postoperative ones) and skin rashes with antiseptic preparations for external use. One of the most effective antiseptics is a pharmacy solution of brilliant green, that is, the usual "brilliant green". Even the most dangerous of staphylococci, golden, is very sensitive to it. Hydrogen peroxide, 70% ethanol and Vishnevsky liniment are also used for external skin treatment (this ointment is especially effective for pyoderma).

As an additional method of treatment, washing and rinsing the throat and oral cavity with weak solutions of antiseptics is indicated.

General treatment

With a generalized infection (sepsis) in hospitals, staphylococcus aureus is treated in children using blood transfusions - blood and plasma transfusions.

In severe cases, surgical intervention may be indicated, the purpose of which is to sanitize the focus of purulent inflammation.

Prevention

It is known that any infection, including staphylococcal, is much easier to prevent than to cure. For healthy children with high immunity, staphylococcus is not dangerous - defense mechanisms are able to cope with it on their own. Thus, the main task of prevention is to prevent the impact of negative factors on the child's body.

Factors that negatively affect immunity include:

A child from an early age should be taught to regularly wash his hands with soap (younger children should be helped by parents), he should not be allowed to put toys and other objects that may contain bacteria into his mouth.

Important: in order to strengthen immunity and reduce the likelihood of developing staphylococcus aureus in children, babies need to be taken out for a walk in the fresh air more often, and it is better to give preference to outdoor games. It is undesirable to include smoked meats, sausages and, moreover, fast food in the diet. It is advisable to limit the consumption of flour and sweets. It is advisable to take your child on country walks more often so that he has the opportunity to breathe unpolluted air.

To strengthen the body's defenses, children of preschool and primary school age are shown hardening (regular wiping and dousing), as well as physical education and sports.

Chumachenko Olga, pediatrician

Despite the fact that today many children at various ages are diagnosed with staphylococcal infection, this diagnosis is very frightening for parents. This is due to the low degree of public awareness about this disease and the spread of various myths about it. In fact, the danger of staphylococcus for children is determined by its type and the level of immunity of the baby. Everything is not as scary as it might seem at first glance.

1. Weakened immunity

The most common cause of staphylococcal infections in children is a weakened immune system. If a child is strong, healthy, hardened, rarely succumbs to colds, it is unlikely that pathogenic microorganisms can break him. Moreover, tests sometimes show the presence of bacteria in the body, but there are no manifestations: a strong immune system itself will successfully fight them. But a weakened child can go to the hospital. However, even here, with timely treatment and the modern level of medicine, dangerous consequences can be avoided.

2. Violation of hygiene rules

The second common cause of staphylococcus in children is poor hygiene. Bacteria live where there is dirt, and it is always difficult to get a child to wash his hands before eating and not put everything in his mouth. Weakened immunity, coupled with a lack of sterility, allow the disease to take over.

3. Infection from the outside

Staphylococci can enter the body of a child after contact with an infected person, and this can happen through broken, damaged skin and mucous membranes.

Carriers of pathogenic microorganisms can be catering workers (then infection is possible through food) or medical staff if the child, for example, was in the hospital, where he was given injections and procedures. Insects are also carriers of the disease, which is why it is so important to treat the places of their bites with green or soda solution.

As soon as infection occurs, it is desirable to recognize enemy microorganisms in a timely manner. Whether probably it without analyses?

Symptoms and signs of staphylococcus in children

Only bacterial cultures can give the most accurate picture of the disease: the number of detected staphylococci is counted and compared with a certain norm. Only then is appropriate treatment prescribed. But when does it become necessary to take these tests?

The fact is that different types of staphylococci affect different systems and organs, disguising themselves as quite ordinary, even familiar to many diseases. Their signs will be the primary symptoms that make you seek help from the hospital. For any type of infection, the following manifestations are characteristic:

lethargy;
lack of appetite;
diarrhea;
vomit;
elevated temperature - not always.

epidermal causes most often skin lesions: various kinds of dermatitis, blepharitis, boils, folliculitis, eczema, acne, conjunctivitis (in this case, staphylococcus spreads on the skin, on the face and even in the eyes);
hemolytic settles on the mucous membranes of the child, so the signs of such an infection will resemble the symptoms of a sore throat or a cold - cough, runny nose, sore throat and sore throat (an analysis for bacterial culture is a scraping with a special tool in the nose and mouth of the child);
saprophytic in children is not found so often, but still it should not be overlooked: it affects the genitourinary system, so children often complain of pain in the lower abdomen, painful and frequent urination, as with cystitis (laboratory studies suggest the detection of infection in the urine) ;
Staphylococcus aureus is the most dangerous in this chain, since it is able to penetrate into any organ and start an inflammatory, purulent reaction there, which is difficult to treat, is a serious health hazard;
very often in children there is an upset stomach, which leads to enterocolitis, dysbacteriosis, etc. (tests should reveal the presence of staphylococci in the feces, which will indicate the penetration of the infection into the intestines).

Parents in this case can only catch themselves in time, consult a doctor, without self-medicating and not hoping that this is a common cold. Behind the usual runny nose, a staphylococcal infection can be hidden, which can only be detected with the help of laboratory tests, according to the results of which the doctor prescribes treatment.

Treatment of childhood staph infection

The complexity of the disease is that staphylococci do not respond to most antibiotics. Modern medicine still uses such powerful drugs, but here again there is a trap: antibiotic drugs are undesirable for a child's body. Therefore, with a small focus of infection, in the absence of serious diseases fraught with consequences, sometimes doctors manage to treat staphylococcus aureus in children without antibiotics. What is he afraid of?

Firstly, it is necessary to ensure the sterility of everything that surrounds a small patient, eliminating dirt, which can serve as a dangerous peddler and a beneficial environment for the reproduction of harmful microorganisms. Explain to children the importance of good hygiene.
Secondly, the task of anti-staphylococcal treatment is to increase the patient's immunity so that he can cope with the infection himself. Therefore, various immunostimulating drugs are prescribed. For example, there is vaccination. The staphylococcus vaccine is not included in the mandatory childhood vaccination calendar, but doctors at risk of infection sometimes advise it to be done in advance, when the microorganisms have not yet been activated.
Thirdly, those drugs are prescribed that are effective in combating diseases caused by staphylococcus aureus.
Fourthly, doctors advise children to follow a certain diet with staphylococcus aureus, as this is an infectious disease. As a result, the functions of organs change, energy, water-salt and protein metabolism is disturbed, the level of vitamins decreases. Therefore, the diet of a sick child should include easily digestible meals (rich in proteins, carbohydrates, dietary fiber, vitamins), provide him with frequent meals, but in small portions and a sufficient amount of drinking (tea with milk or lemon, table mineral water, fruit drinks, rosehip broth , juices, jelly, compotes, low-fat fermented milk drinks).

Depending on each individual situation and the treatment of staphylococcus may be different. As for folk remedies against these bacteria, the doctor must know about their use. Medicinal herbs can also cope with some types of microorganisms as an accompanying herbal medicine to the main course of treatment. But it will be very difficult for them to cope with Staphylococcus aureus.

What is dangerous staphylococcus aureus

The main consequence of staphylococcus is a variety of diseases that can only be invented, and difficult to treat, unlike ordinary diseases, since these bacteria are not afraid of antibiotics. And if you can cope with a runny nose, sore throat, dysbacteriosis and even dermatitis, then diseases such as bronchitis, pneumonia, pustular skin diseases and even sepsis can cause a lot of torment to the child, require long and thorough treatment.

Advice to parents whose children have been found in the body of staphylococci - do not panic, do not invent non-existent dangers, consult a doctor in a timely manner and follow all his instructions. This is the only way to cope with the infection and avoid possible consequences.

There are a number of conclusions about the dangers of washing cosmetics. Unfortunately, not all new mothers listen to them. 97% of shampoos use the hazardous substance Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) or its equivalents. Many articles have been written about the impact of this chemistry on the health of both children and adults. At the request of our readers, we tested the most popular brands.

The results were disappointing - the most advertised companies showed the presence of those very dangerous components in the composition. In order not to violate the legal rights of manufacturers, we cannot name specific brands. Mulsan Cosmetic, the only company that passed all the tests, successfully received 10 points out of 10 (read). Each product is made from natural ingredients, completely safe and hypoallergenic.

If you doubt the naturalness of your cosmetics, check the expiration date, it should not exceed 10 months. Approach carefully to the choice of cosmetics, it is important for you and your child.

Staphylococcus aureus is a species of bacteria that belongs to the Staphylococcaceae family. The bacterium got its name due to the spherical shape of the cells, which are arranged relative to each other in the form of clusters (Greek kokkas - “grain”). These microorganisms are capable of producing pathogenic substances (enzymes and toxins) that disrupt the vital activity of cells in the body.

Types of staphylococcus

The diagnosis of staphylococcal infection in children (including newborns and infants) is familiar to many parents firsthand, as it ranks first among infectious diseases. These include respiratory diseases, skin infections, digestive disorders in the intestines, inflammation of bone tissue and various organs of the human body. Bacteria are found in feces, blood, on the surface of damaged areas of the skin. Treatment of such consequences occurs in several stages and requires high professionalism of the attending physician.

However, not all types of this microbe are harmful. For example, staphylococcus in a child's throat is not terrible if the baby is healthy and has strong immunity (even if the norm of bacteria is slightly exceeded). Most dangerous is Staphylococcus aureus in infants in the active phase, the treatment of which requires immediate hospitalization.

Types of staphylococcus:

Saprophytic staphylococcus. This species is rare in children, as it often affects the genitourinary system (skin and mucous membranes). It is considered less dangerous to humans. If the treatment is chosen correctly, then it is realistic to get rid of the microbe in a few days.
Epidermal staphylococcus. The name speaks for itself. This species is found on all areas of the skin and mucous membranes (in the nose, eyes, mouth or internal pharynx). Most often it affects children who have undergone surgery, as well as premature and debilitated babies. It is not dangerous for the body of a healthy child, even the presence of epidermal staphylococcus aureus in a newborn is considered the norm, if at the same time the baby feels well. When the skin is affected, topical treatment is often prescribed.
Staphylococcus aureus. Perhaps the most dangerous and insidious of known microorganisms. It got its name because of the orange or yellow color of the colony. Many people mistakenly believe that Staphylococcus aureus lives only in the intestines. In a laboratory study, it can be found in feces, mucous membranes (even in the mouth), on the surface of the skin. If the child is not worried about anything, treatment is not prescribed, since the baby's body itself successfully copes with these bacteria.

Treatment of the infection is a very difficult process, since Staphylococcus aureus is very resistant to exposure and is quickly transmitted:

Staphylococcus aureus can withstand about 10 minutes. at +800;
treatment with most antibiotics and antiseptics often does not work, since Staphylococcus aureus easily adapts to them;
active when dried up to 6 months 12 hours when exposed to direct sunlight;
Staphylococcus aureus is not afraid of sodium chloride, ethyl alcohol and hydrogen peroxide.

Symptoms of infection

The symptoms and signs of a staph infection depend on many factors, such as:

the age of the child;
habitat of bacteria (food, dust);
the health and general condition of the baby (immune system, the presence of other diseases);
type of staphylococcus aureus (staphylococcus aureus in infants more often than others contributes to a violent reaction of the immune system).

Only a specialist can make a correct diagnosis. Parents can only carefully monitor the condition of the child and inform the health worker about certain reactions of the baby.

There are two forms of staphylococcal infection: early and late. In the early form, the characteristic symptoms of infection appear within a few hours after the bacterium enters the body. The late form may appear in 3-5 days.

The main symptoms and signs of staphylococcal infection in children:

Various skin rashes - boils (mainly in the nose), pustules, rash, stomatitis (in the mouth). It is worth consulting a doctor if unusual spots or pustules appear on the skin of a child. Conjunctivitis (bacteria on the mucous membrane, in the eyes) is also often observed in infected children. If you run a staphylococcal infection, there is a danger of damage to internal organs and, even worse, sepsis.
Deterioration of the general condition of the child - high temperature (from 38.80 and above), lethargy, apathy.
Violation of the digestive processes in the stomach and intestines - vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite.

Diagnostics

Parents will not be able to independently determine which infection has entered the child's body. To do this, you need to conduct a laboratory study.

Bacteriological culture. This type of study checks for the presence of bacteria in the blood, pus, mucous membranes (usually in the nose), in feces and on the surface of the skin. The material for analysis is taken in the acute period of infection, since at this moment the bacteria are especially active, they are easier to detect and recognize. After that, the degree of impact of antibiotics on the detected bacteria is examined in order to prescribe an effective treatment. Staphylococcus aureus in children does not always appear the first time in a routine blood test, so the bacteriological seeding method is considered the most effective.
Serological blood test. The blood serum is examined for the presence of antibodies to the infectious agent.
PCR method (polymerase chain reaction). Allows you to detect even a single molecule of bacterial DNA. Applied as an additional study.
Mother's breast milk examination. Often carried out when detected (more than the allowable rate) in the feces of a child, since the bacterium is easily transmitted from the mother. The expressed milk is tested for the presence of the infectious agent. The main thing for such a study is sterility. When a staphylococcus bacterium is found in milk, breastfeeding is very rarely canceled, as a rule, specialists select the appropriate treatment.

In each laboratory there is a norm for the content of bacteria in the analysis, that is, the presence of a small amount of staphylococcus in the body does not indicate an infection, especially if there are no symptoms. These bacteria do not need to be treated.

Treatment of staph infection

It is up to medical professionals to treat infections, only they can prescribe specific recommendations and drugs, having examined the overall picture of the infection. It is enough for parents to know modern methods of treatment, in case there are doubts about the prescribed measures, since doctors often play it safe.

Ways to treat a staphylococcal infection:

local treatment. It consists in the treatment of wounds, pustules and other rashes on the body, in the nose and other areas with special means. The most insidious Staphylococcus aureus is very sensitive to a solution of brilliant green, in other words, it is an ordinary brilliant green. More often, several agents are used (70% alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, Vishnevsky ointment).
Treatment with antibacterial drugs. It is not always appropriate to treat Staphylococcus aureus with antibiotics, especially if it is found only in the baby's stool. To begin with, it is worth conducting a bacteriological study.
Washing the affected areas and rinsing. They are used both as an additional therapy and for the treatment of simple forms of staphylococcus aureus in the nose, mouth and internal pharynx.
Taking vitamins and minerals to improve metabolism.
Immunoglobulins. Such medicines are prescribed to restore the protective functions of the body.
Transfusion of blood and plasma. It is used in case of severe infection.
Surgical intervention.

Infection prevention

Preventing an infection is easier than treating it. Prevention of staphylococcal infection in children is directly related to the state of the body's defense mechanisms. Staphylococcus is not dangerous for a healthy child, he can easily cope with it, so the main task of parents is to prevent factors that negatively affect the baby's body.

These include:

malnutrition (sweets, unhealthy fats, smoked meats, sausages, fast food);
sedentary lifestyle (rare walks, passion for computer games);
violation of the rules of personal hygiene;
stressful situations (problems in the family, in kindergarten or nervousness of parents);
unfavorable environment (the presence of a large amount of electrical equipment in the house, polluted air).

Staphylococcus is easily transmitted, but with a sufficiently strong immunity, it is not terrible. A small amount of bacteria is the norm for a person, so it is better to take care of improving health, since at the slightest weakening they are ready to attack the body of both an adult and a child.

Staphylococcus: general provisions

Staphylococcus aureus

By staphylococcus it is customary to mean a microorganism from the Staphylococcaceae family (from the Greek “grain”). The bacterium is named staphylococcal due to the shape of the cell structure, which are born in the form of a ball. They are compactly arranged with each other like a vine. The danger of microorganisms lies in the ability to produce and secrete pathogenic organic components (toxic elements and enzyme compounds) that disrupt the healthy functioning of the whole organism. It is easiest for children to get sick with a pathogenic infection. It is they who often have a reduced immune response to aggressive factors from the outside.

Frequent cases of “neighborhood” of staphylococcus infection with salmonella or Escherichia coli against the background of severe dysbacteriosis. The main cause of bacterial infection in children is a decrease in the protective function of the immune system.

Due to the production of toxic enzymes, staphylococcus aureus can cause sepsis, meningitis, various abscesses, inflammatory processes of soft and hard purulent nature, pneumonia.

Strains of staphylococci show incredible resistance to the effects of the most advanced antibiotics, so there is a risk of the child developing an inflammatory process with the formation of internal and external foci of abscess. It is important to identify the disease in time, determine the type of pathogen and begin immediate adequate therapy.

Types of staphylococcus and stages of development during infection

Children are most commonly affected

respiratory tract (lower, upper)
gastrointestinal dysfunction (complete, partial)
inflammation of hard and soft tissues
infection of the urinary system

Bacteria are detected by bacteriological examination of feces, a detailed biochemical analysis of blood, with scrapings of the surface of damaged skin. Medical tactics have a multi-stage approach to the problem, and the duration of recovery is proportional to the neglect of the situation and the type of staphylococcal strain.

Saprophytic staphylococcus aureus

This type of infection is rarely diagnosed in children and is considered the least dangerous disease. The main lesions are the urinary system, including the skin and mucous tissues. When timely and adequate treatment is prescribed, then getting rid of the disease can occur in a couple of days.

epidermal type of staphylococcus

The infection can affect the surface of the skin and mucous membranes. It is found in the eyes, in the nose, in the internal pharynx. Children in the postnatal period, in a state of prematurity, with reduced immunity are prone to the disease. The presence of epidermal-type staphylococcus in medicine is considered the norm and does not pose a serious danger to a healthy child. If the child's well-being does not suffer, then only local therapy is prescribed.

Staphylococcus aureus

Diagnosis of staphylococcus

Treatment of a bacterial infection is a long and difficult undertaking. This is due to the high resistance of pathogenic microorganisms:

bacteria can withstand temperatures up to 800 degrees for about 15 minutes
staphylococcus is not amenable to treatment with most of the strongest medicines
when dried, it remains viable for up to six months
resistant to hydrogen solution and even sodium chloride

Symptomatic complex and features of the manifestation of infection

Staphylococcus bacteria, depending on the type and location of infectious foci, has various clinical signs. They share common local and general external manifestations of infection, and each of them can be expressed in a certain intensity.

Local symptoms of staphylococcus development

Skin rashes in the form of abscesses (boils, abscesses). Often diagnosed in children in the nose and throat. A serious manifestation of the disease is evidenced by the appearance of large spots, carbuncles and other skin formations.
Organic mucus interspersed with pus (phlegm, snot). The presence of symptoms indicates damage to the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract in a descending and ascending line.

General signs of the development of staphylococcus aureus in children

Problems associated with severe intoxication. Severe headaches, high temperature, including slender about 37.3 degrees. The child may experience hyperemia or excessive pallor of the skin. The result of severe intoxication in children is almost always profuse vomiting and a feeling of constant nausea.
Gastrointestinal dysfunction, expressed in liquefaction of the stool, an increase in the volume of the abdomen, the accumulation of intestinal gases and other manifestations.
Allergic reaction to products of oxidative and excretory enzymes as a result of vital activity.

Signs of staph infection in children in the nose and mouth

Local antibiotic therapy

Infection, to a greater extent, manifests itself in a state of acute catarrhal tonsillitis, ulcerative stomatitis, tonsillitis for any type of course:

severe sore throat
swelling of the tonsils, redness of the tonsils
rashes in the mouth in the form of whitish sores (severe stomatitis)
difficulty breathing (mucosal swelling)
secretion of organic fluid with impurities of blood or pus
malaise and general signs of intoxication

Staphylococcal bacteria in the intestine

pain in the epigastric zone of unclear localization
the nature of the pain is intense, wandering or bursting
a strong feeling of heaviness, increased gas formation, bloating
stool contains bloody or purulent inclusions
the occurrence of false urges to empty the bowels, loose stools or constipation
nausea, vomiting, general loss of strength, possible fever

The manifestation of the pathogenic microflora of the staphylococcal group is very diverse and requires careful medical analysis. Children can carry even serious forms of bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, but only if they have strong immune defenses. With any manifestations of the first symptoms and signs of its complications, you should immediately seek help from specialized specialists.

Diagnostic measures and methods of treatment

Prevention is the best way to keep yourself safe

Staphylococcus is treated only with antibiotics. After diagnosing diseases and identifying the disease, the doctor selects a group of drugs that can have a positive effect on improving the child's condition. Then a course of rehabilitation therapy is carried out and recovery occurs.

Preventive actions:

after a successful birth, it is important to leave the hospital as soon as possible
significantly limit the contact of newborn babies with other people
observance of the rules of elementary hygiene of mother and child

Staphylococcaceae has many strains, but only a few of them can cause serious harm to a child's health. It is important for parents to monitor the child's lifestyle and prevent infection in all possible ways. At the first signs of infection, one should not self-medicate, since the diagnosis of the disease is carried out only by a laboratory method.

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Jun 9, 2016Violetta Lekar

Staphylococcus aureus most often affects young children with weakened immune systems or other associated infections. Often staphylococcus, salmonella and E. coli are found in babies with dysbacteriosis. Thus, it is violations of local immunity that are the main cause of staphylococcal infection.

It is noteworthy that staphylococci are extremely resistant to the action of many antibiotics, so there is always a risk that the child will become ill with a purulent-septic disease.

How can a child become infected with staphylococcus aureus? The carriers of this dangerous bacterium are both sick and healthy people, because there are different forms of carrying the infection (temporary and permanent). The course of the disease can also occur in mild and severe forms. Staphylococcus aureus causes sepsis, meningitis, pneumonia, abscesses, and purulent inflammation of the skin and other tissues. With the generalization of the inflammatory process in newborns, sepsis often develops.

The idea that the microorganism affects only the intestines is erroneous. The objects affected by staphylococcal infection are extremely variable: upper and lower respiratory tract, mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, intestines, skin, bone and cartilage tissue, etc.

The children's body is affected by staphylococci of three groups:

Epidermal staphylococcus. Among the varieties of staphylococci, epidermal has an average infectious potential. It occurs on the skin and mucous membranes, but during the normal operation of the carrier's immunity, it does not manifest itself in any way. Signs of bacterial damage appear only if the carrier's immunity is weakened: after surgery, a viral disease, etc. Newborns, especially premature babies, are particularly susceptible to infection.

Saprophytic staphylococcus. Least hazardous to health. It almost never occurs in children, since the main "target" is the organs of the excretory system.

Staphylococcus aureus. The most dangerous and extremely virulent microorganism. In normal healthy children, Staphylococcus aureus is in a latent state. Of all the varieties of these microorganisms, the most aggressive.

Causes of staphylococcus in children

Diagnosis of castaphylococcus aureus in children

Treatment of staphylococcus in children

Signs and symptoms of staph in children

In most cases (from 48% to 78%), it is staphylococcus bacteria that cause inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract, which are common in children.

Staphylococcal pneumonia can occur after infection of a child in a hospital or maternity ward. The disease often develops at lightning speed, with destruction of lung tissue and other complications. Toxins produced by staphylococcus aureus cause severe intoxication of the body, which, in combination with pneumonia, causes a violation of the respiratory system and blood circulation. A sick child is restless, tosses about in bed, may moan and scream. Chills, sweating, dry cough and puffiness of the face are also characteristic symptoms.

Staphylococcal enterocolitis is an extremely severe intestinal disease. In 13% of cases, it ends in death. Premature and weak children are susceptible to the disease. It is also provoked by previously transferred acute respiratory diseases, taking antibiotics, artificial feeding and violations of the intestinal biocenosis.

The nature of the manifestations depends, first of all, on the type of microorganism:

Saprophytic staphylococcus. For saprophytic staphylococcus a lesion of the genitourinary system is characteristic.

Pain in the lower abdomen (in women);

Possible development of colpitis (in women);

Burning and pain when urinating;

Pain in the region of the kidneys.

General signs of intoxication (rare).

Epidermal staphylococcus makes itself felt by one main feature: pain in the area of organs, and in the later stages - functional disorders of their work.

Staphylococcus aureus is characterized by the development of purulent-necrotic foci at the site of the lesion. Often it is he who causes the formation of boils, catarrhal tonsillitis, etc.

General and local symptoms of staphylococcus in children

By systematizing the symptoms, it is possible to generalize all manifestations into two large groups: general and local.

Local manifestations:

Eruptions on the skin and mucous membranes. Furuncles ("abscesses"), carbuncles, etc. In children, they are especially often localized on the mucous membrane of the nose and throat. The development of spots, large boils speaks of the severe course of the process.

Purulent discharge in biological fluids. Mucus from the nose, sputum with impurities of pus indicate damage to the mucous membranes of the upper or lower respiratory tract.

General manifestations:

Symptoms of intoxication. Headache, fever up to 37.6-38.1 degrees Celsius, flushing or, conversely, pallor of the skin, nausea and vomiting (especially common in children).

Gastrointestinal disorders. Diarrhea, bloating, excessive production of intestinal gases, etc.

In allergic-minded children, immune reactions to toxins and enzymes that staphylococcus secretes in the course of its life are also possible.

Risk factors

The intensity and nature of manifestations depend on many factors:

Age. Symptoms depend on the age of the child. Babies get staph infections more often and the symptoms are more severe.

Habitat and medium of penetration of the microorganism. The way it enters the body determines the object of damage. If staphylococcus enters the body with dust particles, lesions of the upper or lower respiratory tract will appear. If with food, the throat or intestines will suffer.

The health status of the carrier child. There is a direct relationship between the severity of the disease, the brightness of manifestations and the weakening of the immune system. It is indicated in a quite obvious way: the more weakened the immune system, the brighter the manifestations and the more severe the course of a staphylococcal infection.

A type of microorganism. The most severe lesions are Staphylococcus aureus.

A type of microorganism (the most aggressive and dangerous is Staphylococcus aureus, it is in 90% of cases that it causes infectious diseases in children).

Causes of staphylococcus in children

There are several reasons for the development of a staph infection in children:

Premature birth of a child. Premature babies are especially affected. The reason lies in the insufficient development of the immunity of the child in the womb. Children born by caesarean section are no less susceptible to staphylococcal infection. Immune problems and infection can make themselves felt later in life;

Violations of the rules for the care of newborn children;

Failure to comply with hygiene rules. Staph infection, a kind of dirty hand disease. Since the microorganism is extremely resistant to all adverse effects, it is widespread and can be found without leaving home. Failure to comply with basic hygiene rules (including the use of dirty fruits and vegetables, etc.) leads to rapid infection. The problem concerns older children (1 year and older), as well as parents of newborns.

Pathological processes during gestation and lactation. The mother may be infected with staphylococcus aureus without being aware of it. A pathogenic microorganism can penetrate with milk for a number of other reasons. So, infection can occur even during the period of gestation.

Lack of weight. Lack of body weight leads to a weakening of the immune system.

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Staphylococcus in a child in the throat, in the intestines, in the nose

The throat, intestines and nose are the "favorite" objects of staphylococcal lesions. The reason for this is the method of penetration. Most often, pathogenic flora enters the body mechanically (children often neglect the rules of hygiene), or with food.

These forms of damage have their own specific manifestations, are diagnosed and treated differently:

Staphylococcus on the mucous throat manifests itself as acute catarrhal tonsillitis, tonsillitis and stomatitis.

Sore throat;

Swelling and redness of the tonsils;

Purulent rashes on the surface of the mucosa, as well as mucous membranes of the oral cavity (stomatitis);

General manifestations of intoxication.

Staphylococcus aureus is a bacterium that produces the strongest toxin and adversely affects the human body. In the body, this bacterium lives in a small amount, without causing harm, but if immunity is weakened, staphylococcus begins to multiply actively and leads to the development of purulent-inflammatory processes. Staphylococcus aureus is especially dangerous for infants, since babies have unformed immunity and are not able to withstand the aggressive effects of the microorganism.

Against the background of infection with this bacterium, they can develop a variety of pathologies, up to the most severe, such as and. And since Staphylococcus aureus is a predominantly nosocomial infection, infants become infected with it immediately after birth - from the mother, contaminated objects or personnel.

Causes of a staph infection

Staphylococcus aureus in newborns appears in several cases. Firstly, if the baby becomes infected from a sick mother or mother carrying the bacteria. In this case, infection can occur in three ways:

when a woman contacts a child;
when feeding through breast milk;
infection can occur directly during the passage of the child through the birth canal of the mother.

Secondly, staphylococcus aureus in a newborn may appear if personal hygiene rules are not followed in a medical institution or at home. For example, if the mother doesn’t wash the baby often enough, washes his hands, etc., because the child constantly pulls something into his mouth, but is everywhere around us, and can easily get on the body and hands.

Also, staphylococcus aureus in newborns often appears due to infection from the medical staff of the maternity hospital. This happens in cases where health workers did not detect this pathogen in a timely manner or they do not carefully treat their hands before performing procedures for caring for a baby in a maternity hospital, which is why staphylococcus aureus from the environment enters the newborn.

By airborne droplets, Staphylococcus aureus can also enter the body of a newborn, but in this case it causes pathologies such as, and staphylococcal etiology. Sometimes newborns become infected with this bacterium through the umbilical wound, again due to insufficient hygiene by the staff of the maternity hospital or the mother herself.

Staphylococcus in a certain amount is determined in the body of each newborn, but not everyone provokes the development of dangerous pathologies. Most often they develop in children who have reduced immunity. Predisposing factors for the development of the disease can be:

prematurity;
pathological course of pregnancy and delivery;
hypotrophy of the newborn.

Also, in children who have gone home, it can develop in cases where they are often sick and their immune defenses are impaired. Parents may encounter this pathology in a child suffering.

Symptoms

The signs that Staphylococcus aureus has entered the baby's body are different, because it all depends on the immune defense, the aggressiveness of the microbe and the place of its localization. Most often, Staphylococcus aureus affects the oral cavity and respiratory tract, as well as the digestive tract - this is due to the main ways the infection enters the baby's body.

If the bacterium has settled in the nose, symptoms such as:

rhinitis with slight discharge;
loss of appetite;
weight loss.

The general condition of the newborn is usually not disturbed, the temperature does not rise.

In cases where the microbe enters the oral cavity, staphylococcal develops, or.

The signs of such damage are as follows:

purulent-necrotic plaque on the palate, tonsils, tongue;
hyperemia of the pharynx, which does not have a clear localization;
elevated temperature.

Usually, when staphylococcus is detected in a newborn in the pharynx, he has a severe sore throat, but the child cannot complain of pain, so parents can guess that this symptom is present because the baby refuses food, cries (crying intensifies when swallowing).

Despite the fact that the ways of infection with Staphylococcus aureus can be different, the most popular route of infection in newborns is food, so staphylococcus aureus is often found in the feces of infants, which should not normally be there. If staphylococcus in a newborn is determined in the feces, then there is a possibility that he will develop or.

Signs that a microorganism has entered the gastrointestinal tract of a child are as follows:

vomiting, which is non-stop;
pallor of the skin;
diarrhea up to 6 times a day;
skin rashes - from boils to pemphigus of newborns.

Also, the symptoms of disorders in the gastrointestinal tract against the background of a staphylococcal infection may be as follows - abdominal pain, dizziness, weakness. But a small child cannot tell about these symptoms, therefore, his behavior indicates their presence - tearfulness, capriciousness, refusal of food, etc. Older children may already complain about certain signs, on the basis of which the doctor may assume the presence in a staphylococcal infection.

A very formidable complication of staphylococcus in a newborn can be, in which the microbe spreads through the blood throughout the body. Sepsis often causes death, which is why it is so important to start treatment of the pathology in a timely manner.

Diagnosis and treatment

Staphylococcus aureus is found in feces or in smears from the nasopharynx of the baby. Also, when making a diagnosis, the doctor takes into account the complaints of the child's parents and his general well-being. Treatment must be carried out in a hospital, and the baby and his mother must be placed in separate boxes, since this infection is contagious to other hospital patients.

Usually, treatment includes antibacterial drugs, which are prescribed in combination (several at once) to prevent the development of resistance in bacteria to them. It is advisable, before starting treatment, to determine the sensitivity of the pathogen to antibiotics - then it will be more effective. Treatment also involves the use of antistaphylococcal drugs and detoxification therapy. At the same time, treatment should be aimed at increasing the immunity of the child, for which the baby is prescribed vitamin complexes.

If Staphylococcus aureus is found in the intestines of a small patient, probiotic preparations, such as Bifidumbacterin, should be included in the treatment.

Unfortunately, staphylococcus is difficult to treat, so treatment can be lengthy, and its results are evaluated by repeated bacteriological culture or fecal analysis.

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Diseases with similar symptoms:

Inflammation of the lungs (officially pneumonia) is an inflammatory process in one or both respiratory organs, which is usually infectious in nature and is caused by various viruses, bacteria and fungi. In ancient times, this disease was considered one of the most dangerous, and although modern treatments allow you to quickly and without consequences get rid of the infection, the disease has not lost its relevance. According to official figures, in our country every year about a million people suffer from pneumonia in one form or another.