Who is more susceptible to infections with Staphylococcus aureus?
Staphylococcus aureus can cause illness by preformed toxin production as well as by infecting both local tissues and the systemic circulation. Disease transmission can occur in the following settings: • a) Gastrointestinal: Staphylococcus aureus causes acute episodes of food poisoning via preformed enterotoxins. Food items likely to be infected by staphylococcal food poisoning include meat and meat products; poultry and egg products; salads such as egg, tuna, chicken, potato, and macaroni; bakery products such as cream-filled pastries, cream pies, and chocolate clairs; sandwich fillings; and milk and dairy products. • b) Skin and hair infections: Staphylococcus aureus commonly colonizes many skin surfaces on the nasopharynx, and perineum; but can cause infection of these surfaces particularly if the cutaneous barrier has been disrupted or damaged. • c) Systemic infections: Staphylococcus aureus commonly causes infective endocarditis in IV drug abusers; osteomyelitis, sinus infections i
