Toxic shock syndrome (TSS)
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS)
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare, but serious medical condition caused by a bacterial infection. It is caused when the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus gets into the bloodstream and produces toxins. Although toxic shock syndrome has been linked to superabsorbent tampon use in menstruating women, this condition can affect men, children, and people of all ages due to surgical procedures, burns, or influenza pneumonia.
Symptoms of TSS include high fever that starts suddenly, vomiting, severe watery diarrhea, and muscle aches. It is typically followed by hypotension (low blood pressure) and, in severe cases, shock which is when you don’t have enough blood circulating around the body. Symptoms of shock include cool, clammy skin and skin that is pale or ashen. The disease cannot spread from person to person and there is no vaccine available for toxic shock syndrome. The best way to prevent infection with Staphylococcus aureus is by washing your hands properly and regularly, covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.