Toxic shock syndrome (TSS)

TSS can follow an infection in the vagina, skin, throat or another part of the body. It may also occur around a wound, operation or menstrual product. The bacteria release toxins that can affect blood pressure and organs throughout the body.

Symptoms may begin suddenly. They can include fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, confusion, fainting and a widespread red rash. Skin peeling may appear later. The illness can look like flu at first, but a rapid change or several symptoms together is a warning.

If TSS is possible, seek emergency help immediately. Remove an internal menstrual product if one is in place, but do not delay care while trying to identify the cause. Tell the medical team about recent wounds, procedures, infections, medicines and menstrual products.

Hospital treatment may include intravenous fluids, antibiotics, close monitoring and treatment of the infection source. A person who feels faint, confused or severely weak should not drive. Ask someone to call emergency services and stay nearby.

Get urgent help for fever combined with faintness, confusion, breathing problems, severe weakness, repeated vomiting or diarrhoea, a spreading rash, or rapidly worsening pain. Do not wait for every symptom to appear.

Ask what source of infection is being treated, which symptoms should trigger immediate review, and how long to continue prescribed medicine. If TSS has happened before, ask how future menstrual products, wounds or procedures should be managed.