Staphylococcus aureus

Staphylococcus aureus is an opportunistic, spherical bacteria, arranged in grape-like clusters.

It is the cause of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA), most commonly found in hospitals. Unlike other bacteria, S. aureus thrives in salty environments and so is most commonly found on the nasal membranes and the skin surface in

• > 30% individuals
• > 90% hospital staff
  

This bacteria is capable of causing:

• Boils and abscesses
• Wound infections
• Food poisoning 
• Pneumonia
• Toxic Shock Syndrome
• Endocarditis

Treatment of S. aureus

Less severe infections will not require any form of treatment and will usually clear up of their own accord. Examples of this are skin boils and mild food poisoning. However, more serious infections may require antibiotic tablets and creams to aid recovery. Minor surgery may also be needed to treat more serious boils and abscesses caused by S. 'aureus.