Staphylococcal Infections in Children
In children, it can cause skin infections (impetigo), especially during summer months when children wear lighter clothing and are more exposed. Other factors that contribute to its occurrence include skin disruptions from insect bites or injuries.
Staphylococcus can also cause other conditions besides skin infections, such as pneumonia, osteomyelitis, arthritis, endocarditis and sepsis, though these are rare in healthy children.
Treatment
For early-stage infections or isolated lesions:
- Clean the affected area with an antiseptic.
- Apply a topical antibiotic ointment.
If the lesions spread or are near the eyes:
- Oral antibiotic therapy is prescribed for 7-10 days.
The child is no longer contagious 1-2 days after starting treatment or when the lesions dry out. At this point, the child can safely return to school. Lesions should not be covered, but care should be taken during the child’s activities and interactions with other children.
Hygiene Measures
- Maintain proper hygiene.
- Ensure the child washes their hands thoroughly, avoiding contact with the lesions or touching their eyes.
- Change the child's clothes daily and use a separate towel from other family members.
Recurrent Infections
Sometimes, staphylococcus may reappear after completing antibiotic therapy. In such cases:
- Perform cultures from the nostrils of all family members to identify potential intrafamilial transmission.
Written by Paediatrician Katerina Katsibardi, MP, PhD
