Staphylococcus Aureus

Staphylococcus Aureus Latest News

An institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) based in North East India has synthesised a novel biosurfactant which has been found to act effectively against bacterium Staphylococcus aureus.

About Staphylococcus Aureus

• It is a type of bacteria belonging to the family Staphylococcaceae. 
• It stains Gram positive and is non-moving small round shaped or non-motile cocci.
• It is found in grape-like (staphylo-) clusters.
• It may occur commonly in the environment. 
  • S. aureus was discovered in Aberdeen, Scotland in 1880 by the surgeon Sir Alexander Ogston in pus from surgical abscesses.
• It affects all known mammalian species, including humans. 
• Further due to its ability to affect a wide range of species, S. aureus can be readily transmitted from one species to another. (This includes transmission between humans and animals.)
• It causes
  • Minor skin infections, such as pimples, impetigo etc.
  • It may cause boils (furuncles), cellulitis folliculitis, carbuncles
  • It is the cause of scalded skin syndrome and abscesses
  • It may lead to lung infections or pneumonia
• Treatment: Healthcare providers can treat most staph infections with antibiotics.

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Transmission of Staphylococcus Aureus

• S. aureus is transmitted through air droplets or aerosol. When an infected person coughs or sneezes.
• It can also transmit through direct contact with objects that are contaminated by the bacteria or by bites from infected persons or animals. 

Source: PIB