What should people do to protect themselves?
The risk to the general public of becoming infected with PVL S. aureus is small but it is always good practice to maintain appropriate hygiene measures which include proper cleansing and disinfection of cuts and minor wounds. Wounds should be covered with a bandage until healed and individuals should avoid contact with other peoples’ bandages and lesions. If the infection spreads or recurs go to your GP or Accident and Emergency for further investigation and/or treatment. Such spreading infection should not be ignored. Other simple measures are regular bathing/showering, regular changing of linen and underwear, hand washing, avoiding sharing personal items (eg toothbrushes, face cloths, towels) and keeping wounds covered. Chances of contracting all types of S. aureus infections are reduced by maintaining good hand hygiene and not sharing personal items. In shared facilities (for instance, in gyms) it is good practice to use liquid soap and disposable towels, to place a towel on the ben
