What is a staph infection?

A staph infection is an infection caused by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, commonly known as staph.

Staph bacteria are normally found on the skin or in the nose of healthy individuals and do not always cause an infection.

However, if the bacteria enter the body through a cut or wound, they can cause infections ranging from minor skin infections, such as boils and impetigo, to more serious infections affecting the bloodstream, bones, joints, lungs, or heart.