By: Erin Moore for Body1A drug-resistant staph bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus has emerged, and has doctors worried. Dubbed the “superbug,” this germ has become more common in hospitals and is now spreading among prisons, gyms, and locker rooms, experts say. Infection is often a minor skin irritation, but can sometimes be more invasive and lead to serious complications. And because the bacterium has become resistant to antibiotics, these serious cases are growing. Tragedies like the death of a 17-year-old high school senior Monday – doctors say the bacteria spread to his kidneys, liver, lungs, and heart muscles – are bringing more attention to this superbug and its reach.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest the following to stay safe:
Wash your hands thoroughly and don’t share personal items like razors or towels.
Clean and cover any cuts or wounds.
If you are prescribed antibiotics, take the full course.
Don’t take antibiotics unless they are prescribed to you.Related content:
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