How is toxic shock syndrome transmitted?
• staphylococcus infections Staphylococcus aureus (or S. aureus) may normally exist in a person’s nose or vagina and not cause infection. Because it is part of the body’s normal bacteria, 90 percent of individuals develop antibodies to prevent infection. S. aureus can be transmitted by direct contact with infected persons. Individuals who develop TSS, usually have not developed antibodies against S. aureus. Therefore, it is not usually considered a contagious infection. S. aureus infections may also occur from another infection such as pneumonia, sinusitis, osteomyelitis (infection in the bone), or skin wound, such as a burn or surgical site. If any of these areas are infected, the bacteria can penetrate into the bloodstream. • streptococcus infections Streptococcus pyogenes (or S. pyogenes) TSS may occur as a secondary infection. Most commonly, this is seen in individuals who have recently had chickenpox or bacterial cellulitis (infection of the skin and underlying tissue).
