Staph Infection Risks
Bacterial and viral infections can spread rapidly through a hospital if the staff does not take care to keep rooms and equipment clean. One of the most harmful and contagious strains of bacteria that a person may pick up in a hospital setting is Staphylococcus aureus, known more commonly as “staph” or MRSA. Those with weak immune systems, such as infants, young children, and the elderly, are much more likely than others to become severely ill from exposure to staph.
If your baby was infected with staph or another bacteria or virus shortly after birth, the hospital may be liable. To discuss your legal options for pursuing compensation for your child’s illness-related costs, contact the Philadelphia birth infection lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., today at 215-238-1130.
Symptoms of Staph / MRSA
Strains of staphylococcus are present in almost every environment, though they are more prevalent in hospitals and other medical facilities. This increases the chance of contracting staph, especially when one’s immune system is compromised from a recent injury, illness, or from giving birth. Newborn infants are especially susceptible when delivery rooms are not properly cleaned.
If your baby shows any of the following signs of illness, he or she may have a staph infection:
- Abscesses or boils on the skin
- Fevers
- Chills
- Impetigo (crusting of the skin)
- Cellulitis (inflammation under the skin)
Without proper treatment, a staph infection can cause serious illness and may even be fatal. If your child has fallen ill from MRSA contracted during or shortly after delivery, you may have legal grounds to pursue a lawsuit for negligence against the hospital. Our Philadelphia birth injury attorneys can explain your legal options and clarify the types of damages that you may be able to recover.
Contact Us
For responsive legal advice and assistance with your birth injury claim, contact a Philadelphia birth infection attorney of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., by calling 215-238-1130.