In its June issue, Shape reported on Erin Zammett Ruddy’s struggle with methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) — also known as a staph infection. MRSA can first be detected through boil-like rashes on the skin.

While Ruddy contracted the infection while giving birth to her son in a hospital, the magazine points out that this can also happen in nail salons. According to Shape, while MRSA outbreaks have decreased significantly over the last three years, 12 states have reported MRSA at nail salons. The bacteria can mostly be fought by sterilizing tools and the workspace thoroughly. So, technicians: Keep your station clean.

 Check out our Salon Sanitation section for tips and articles.

For reprint and licensing requests for this article, Click here.

Read more about