Types of Staph Infection

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, known as MRSA, is a type of Staphylococcus aureus that is resistant to the antibiotic methicillin and other drugs in this class. Staph infections are treated with topical, oral, or intravenous antibiotics, depending upon the type of infection.

One type of staph infection that involves skin is called cellulitis and affects the skin's deeper layers. It is treatable with antibiotics. This type of infection is very common in the general population -- and more common and more severe in people with weak immune systems.

Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection caused by Group A Streptococcus (GAS) or "strep." What is Group A Streptococcus (GAS)? Group A Streptococcus (GAS) or "strep" is a common bacterium (bacterium is the singular form of the plural, bacteria) that is found on the skin or in the throat ("strep throat").

Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) is a serious skin infection. The infection causes peeling skin over large parts of the body. It looks like the skin has been scalded or burned by hot liquid. It’s more common in the summer and fall. What causes SSSS in a child? It’s usually caused by an infection with a type of Staphylococcal aureas bacteria.