Main source of staphylococcal poisoning

Staphylococcus aureus is a nonmotile, nonspore-forming, Gram positive coccus that occurs singly, in pairs, or in clusters.

Humans are the main source of the organism causing staphylococcal poisoning. Colonization with Staphylococcus aureus occurs in early life and persists throughout life in a significant proportion of the population. It has been found that approximately 40% of normal human adults carry Staphylococcus aureus in their noses and throats. The most important site for colonization is the anterior nares.

Thus, the fingertips and hands often become contaminated with the organism. Also any person having infected (containing pus) cuts or abrasions is a definite source of the organism.

Cows may also be a source of Staphylococcus aureus particularly if the animals have mastitis (an infection of the udder).

Staphylococcus aureus carriers are usually healthy and do not suffer from staphylococcal infection, but may develop endogenous infections when their natural barriers against Staphylococcus aureus infections are breached.

Both asymptomatic carriers and infected individuals may transmit the bacteria to others through closed contact. Staphylococcus may also be acquired via contact with formites contaminated with the organism, as well as with animals that are colonized or infected with Staphylococcus aureus.
Main source of staphylococcal poisoning