Staph Infections in Children: Symptoms, Risks & When to Seek Care

Staphylococcus aureus (“staph”) is a common type of bacteria. Many Canadians carry staph harmlessly on their skin, but in some situations it can cause infections. In children, staph typically affects the skin, but it can also become internal and require urgent medical assessment.

Staph infections vary from mild irritation to more serious illness. If parents or caregivers notice concerning symptoms, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

Skin-Related Symptoms

Staph infections of the skin may appear as:

✔ Boils — painful, swollen, pus-filled bumps around hair follicles or oil glands
✔ Impetigo — contagious skin infection with crusted or weeping lesions, often on the face and limbs
✔ Cellulitis — redness, swelling, and warmth deeper under the skin
✔ Scalded skin syndrome (infants) — blisters or peeling skin due to staph toxins

Many mild skin infections can be managed with medical treatment, and early recognition helps prevent spread.

Foodborne Staph & Flu-Like Symptoms

Staph can also cause symptoms after eating contaminated food. Children may develop:

• Nausea

• Stomach cramps

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

Symptoms may appear within a few hours of exposure and often resolve within a couple of days, but persistent or worsening symptoms should be reviewed by a doctor. Good food handling practices, sanitation and food safety training (including in Canadian workplaces) help reduce transmission risks.

More Serious Complications

If staph enters the bloodstream (bacteremia), it can spread to organs. Two serious but less common conditions include:

Pneumonia

When staph reaches the lungs, symptoms may include:

• Fever

• Fatigue

• Breathing difficulty

• Muscle aches

Endocarditis

When bacteria affect the heart lining, symptoms may include:

• Fever or night sweats

• Murmurs

• Swelling in the legs/feet

• Pale skin

• Shortness of breath

These complications are medical emergencies and require immediate care.

Prevention & Awareness in Canada

While many mild infections are treatable, prevention focuses on:

✔ Proper hand hygiene
✔ Wound care and bandaging
✔ Avoiding shared personal items
✔ Safe food handling and storage

Staph is also relevant to workplace first aid and safety, particularly in sectors involving close contact, food handling, childcare, athletics, and healthcare environments.

Employers across Canada are encouraged to ensure workers have:

• Basic first aid training

• Knowledge of hygiene protocols

• Access to workplace safety resources

These measures support early recognition of symptoms, reduce infection risk, and strengthen overall occupational safety culture.

Educational Disclaimer:

This article is for public education only and not a diagnostic or treatment guide. If a child or adult shows signs of infection or illness, a licensed healthcare provider should be consulted. In emergencies, call local emergency services.