Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is characterized by sudden onset of fever, chills, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches and rash. It can rapidly progress to severe and intractable hypotension and multisystem dysfunction. Desquamation, particularly on the palms and soles can occur 1-2 weeks after onset of the illness.
Prevention
The bacteria that cause toxic shock syndrome can be carried on unwashed hands and prompt an infection anywhere on the body. So hand washing is extremely important.
Females can reduce their risk of TSS by either avoiding tampons or alternating them with sanitary napkins. If a girl uses only tampons, it’s important to choose tampons with the lowest absorbency that will handle her menstrual flow and to change the tampons frequently. Between menstrual periods, it’s a good idea to store tampons away from heat and moisture (where bacteria can grow) – for example, in a bedroom rather than in a bathroom closet.
Because staphylococcus bacteria are often carried on dirty hands, it’s important to wash your hands thoroughly before and after inserting a tampon. If your daughter is just starting her menstrual period, she...