Staph and Strep

My friend had strep throat this past weekend. We already had a trip planned so we decided to go despite him being sick. He hadnt been to the doctor or been on any medication but his son had just gotten over strep so we are almost positive thats what it was and he got medicine a couple days later. Anyways, on Sunday I assume that I got some kind of bug bit on my thumb and it is very sensitive. It has now become a raised spot almost looking like a pimple with pus. It is gradually getting more redness to the area and my entire thumb is painful to the touch and to any kind of movement. I am curious if you can develop a staph infection from close contact to someone with strep, considering I was nursing to him all weekend.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms it can be cellulitis infection but it can be possible for you to be getting this infection from your friend especially if you had some open sore or wound on the thumb. It may also be caused by staph infection from the nasal passages of individuals coming in contact with the patient.So nothing can be said with confirmation regarding the mode of entry of the organism.

Apply some warm compresses and topical antiseptics. Also use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove. Avoid any kind of cosmetics. Topical antibiotics such as mupirocin or neomycin containing ointment are also useful. In case the symptoms persist then oral antibiotics or intravenous antibiotics and incision and drainage may be needed. Please consult a dermatologist in that case.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.