A staph infection is caused by Staphylococcus bacteria, which often live harmlessly on the skin or in the nose. These bacteria cause various skin infections when they enter the body through a cut, scrape, or break in the skin. Common manifestations include boils (pus-filled lumps), impetigo (honey-colored crusts), and cellulitis (infection of deeper skin layers). Understanding the necessary precautions regarding water exposure, particularly bathing, is important when managing an active staph infection.
Bathing vs. Showering: The Recommended Approach
When dealing with a localized staph infection, showering is the recommended method for maintaining personal hygiene. A shower involves brief exposure to flowing water, which quickly rinses away bacteria and debris without prolonged soaking of the infected area. This minimized water contact reduces the chance of Staphylococcus bacteria being carried across the skin to uninfected areas.
The constant flow of water ensures that contaminated water does not collect against the wound, unlike a bath where the body is submerged for an extended period. If the infection is severe, widespread, or involves an open, draining wound, a quick shower is advisable. This limits the risk of bacteria entering the bloodstream through the damaged skin barrier.
A regular soaking bath is discouraged, although a healthcare provider may recommend a diluted bleach bath in specific cases to reduce skin colonization, especially for recurrent infections. The preference for showering supports wound hygiene and minimizes the risk of contamination associated with immersion.
Understanding the Risks of Soaking
Prolonged soaking in a bathtub is discouraged because it introduces several risks that can worsen a staph infection. The primary concern is that the bathwater becomes contaminated with bacteria shedding from the infected lesion. This turns the water into a medium where the bacteria can spread, exposing the entire body to the pathogen and increasing the risk of developing new lesions.
Soaking also compromises the integrity of the skin around the wound through maceration. When the skin is waterlogged for a long time, it softens and weakens. This makes it easier for the infection to spread laterally or for new bacteria to penetrate deeper skin layers. Prolonged moisture creates an environment conducive to bacterial growth and hinders the natural healing process.
A standard bath carries a risk of environmental spread if the tub is not immediately and thoroughly cleaned afterward. Bacteria shed into the water can adhere to the tub’s surface, potentially posing a risk to other household members. The stagnant nature of bathwater allows bacteria to remain in contact with the skin, increasing the likelihood of secondary infection or colonization in sensitive areas.
Practical Steps for Hygiene During Infection
When showering with a staph infection, specific hygiene steps must be followed to ensure the infection is contained and the wound is protected.
Wound Care and Cleansing
If the infected area is covered with a dressing, try to keep it dry during the initial phase of the wash, perhaps using a waterproof covering. The infected area should be washed gently last, using clean hands rather than a washcloth or sponge, which can harbor bacteria.
Cleaning agents should be carefully selected, often involving a prescribed antimicrobial soap, such as a chlorhexidine wash, instead of standard bar soap. These specialized cleansers should be applied to the infected site and surrounding skin as directed to support decolonization.
Post-Shower Protocol
After the shower is complete, the skin must be dried immediately and completely, using a patting motion rather than rubbing. To prevent bacterial transfer and environmental contamination, follow these steps:
- Use a clean, dedicated towel for drying the skin.
- Wash the used towel in hot water immediately after use.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after touching the infected site or handling dressings.
- Clean and disinfect the shower or tub surfaces immediately after use with a household disinfectant spray or bleach solution.