Disclaimer: This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Madgalene (Peggy) Dubert – FRACGP
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery
AHPRA: MED0000987224
What is a staph infection?
A staph infection – sometimes called golden staph or staphylococcal infections – is caused by bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus (“staph”). These bacteria commonly live on the skin or inside the nose of healthy people and usually cause no harm. In fact, around 30% of people carry staph bacteria without symptoms.
Problems occur when staph bacteria enter the body through broken skin, such as cuts, scrapes, insect bites, or surgical wounds. This can lead to infections ranging from minor skin issues to serious, potentially life‑threatening conditions if the bacteria spread deeper into the body.
Common types of staph infections include:
- Skin infections (boils, abscesses, impetigo (school sores) or cellulitis)
- Bloodstream infections (bacteraemia or sepsis)
- Bone or joint infections
- Pneumonia
- Heart infections (endocarditis)
How are staph infections contracted and spread?
Staph infections are spread through direct contact with bacteria on the skin or contaminated objects.
Staph infections can be spread by:
- Touching an infected wound or skin lesion
- Sharing personal items such as towels, razors, clothing, or sports equipment
- Touching contaminated surfaces, including gym equipment or bathroom surfaces
- Poor hand hygiene
- Bacteria entering the body through cuts, abrasions, or medical devices like catheters
Some people carry staph bacteria without symptoms but can still pass it on to others.
Why is it called golden staph and what does MRSA mean?
In everyday language, the terms “staph infection” and “golden staph” are often used interchangeably, but they’re not exactly the same. Staph refers to a group of bacteria (Staphylococcus), many of which live harmlessly on the skin. Golden staph specifically refers to Staphylococcus aureus, the species most likely to cause infections in humans.
MRSA (methicillin‑resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a type of golden staph that has developed resistance to some commonly used antibiotics, which can make infections harder to treat and may require specific medications.
Most common places to catch a staph infection
Staph infections are more likely to occur in environments where there is close contact, shared equipment, or broken skin, including:
Community settings:
- Gyms and fitness centres
- Contact sports environments
- Schools and childcare centres
- Shared housing, dormitories, or military barracks
- Households where personal items are shared
Healthcare settings:
- Hospitals and day surgery centres
- Aged care facilities
- Dialysis centres
- After surgery or when medical devices are used (e.g. IV lines, catheters)
The risk is higher for people with weakened immune systems, chronic conditions like diabetes, or frequent skin injuries.
Treatment options for staph infections
Treatment depends on your personal case, how severe the infection is, and where it is located.
Mild skin infections:
- Cleaning and covering the affected area
- Topical or oral antibiotics
- Warm compresses to encourage healing
Abscesses or boils:
- May require professional drainage
- Antibiotics may be prescribed depending on severity
More serious infections:
- Oral or intravenous antibiotics
- Hospital care if infection has spread to blood, lungs, bones, or heart
- Removal of infected medical devices if needed
Important – always complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve early.
Preventing staph infections
Simple steps can reduce the risk:
- Wash hands regularly
- Keep cuts and wounds clean and covered
- Avoid sharing personal items
- Clean shared surfaces and gym equipment
- Seek early care for suspicious skin infections
When should you see a doctor?
You should seek medical advice if:
- A skin sore becomes red, swollen, painful, or filled with pus
- The infection does not improve or worsens over 24–48 hours
- You develop a fever, chills, or feel unwell
- The redness spreads rapidly or forms red streaks
- The infection is near the eyes, joints, or groin
- You have a chronic illness or weakened immune system
Can a telehealth GP help with staph skin infections?
Staph skin infections are commonly managed by telehealth GPs on Doctors on Demand. If deemed necessary during your consult, your doctor may refer you for in-person testing or a physical examination. Speak to a doctor online, any time of the day or night.
About Dr Peggy Dubert
Dr Magdalene (Peggy) Dubert is a General Practitioner at Doctors on Demand. Dr Peggy qualified in 2003 in South Africa relocating to Australia in 2008. She worked in several Emergency Departments across the country before joining General Practice in 2015. She enjoys all aspects of General Practice.