What type of infection can staphylococci bacteria cause?

Staphylococci bacteria, commonly found on the skin and in the nasal passages of healthy individuals, are well-known for causing a variety of infections, particularly skin-related issues. Skin abscesses, which are collections of pus that occur in response to infection, and pustules, which are small bumps on the skin filled with pus, are among the most frequent manifestations of staphylococcal infections. These conditions occur when staphylococci invade hair follicles or damaged skin, leading to localized infections that can become quite painful and may require medical intervention for drainage or antibiotics.

While staphylococci can contribute to other, more serious infections, such as bloodstream infections (bacteremia) and respiratory infections, the question specifically asks about the type of infection they are primarily known for causing. Conditions like stomach flu, characterized by viral gastroenteritis, are unrelated to staphylococcal bacteria, as they result from a different group of pathogens. Therefore, the association of staphylococci with skin abscesses and pustules is both accurate and the most directly relevant to their common infection profile.