The new superbug ..are you at risk?

Link: The new superbug ..are you at risk? - Mirror.co.uk.

How does it kill?

Like many bacteria that infect the blood, Steno produces a toxin which damages all the vital organs of the body including the heart and kidneys. Without successful treatment the organs gradually fail.

How do I know if I've got it?

The first symptom of a Steno bloodstream infection is fever. People who are sent home with catheters still in them are told to look out for this symptom, as are their family. At the first sign of a fever, they should immediately get medical help. Patients in hospitals are monitored closely for symptoms by medical staff.

Can you protect yourself?

Any tubes inserted into the bodies of long-term patients must be regularly inspected, and it is vital they are not contaminated.

If tubes become contaminated they should be replaced with new, sterile ones. However, there is no evidence of Steno spreading between patients.

How is it be treated?

Normally, the antibiotic Co-trimoxazole is used to treat a Steno infection and this generally works unless the strain is resistant, which is currently very rare in the UK.