Necrotizing fasciitis primary prevention

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Yamuna Kondapally, M.B.B.S[2]

Effective measures for the primary prevention of necrotizing fasciitis include prevention of trauma/breaks in skin integrity, treatment of underlying infections, hand washing, proper wound care and proper management of underlying co-morbidities.

Effective measures for the primary prevention of necrotizing fasciitis include:^[1][2]

• Prevention of trauma/breaks in skin integrity that act as portal of entry
• Treatment of cellulitis to prevent extension into the subcutaneous tissue
• Immunization against varicella zoster virus (in adults and children)
• Hand washing with soap and water or use of alcohol-based hand rub if washing is not possible especially after coughing, sneezing and before preparing food or eating to prevent the spread of group A streptococcal (GAS) infection
• Wounds should be cleaned and monitored for signs of infection
• Patients with strep throat should stay home until 24 hours after their last antibiotic dose
• Avoid spending time in whirlpools, hot tubs, swimming pools, and natural bodies of water (like lakes, rivers, oceans) until infections are healed
• Do not delay first aid of wounds like blisters, scrapes, or any break in the skin
• All contacts should be counselled about the signs and symptoms of infection and advised to go immediately to an emergency department for prompt treatment
• Patients with underlying co-morbidities should watch carefully for any signs of infection