Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a bacterium that causes infections in different parts of the body. It's tougher to treat than most strains of staphylococcus aureus -- or staph -- because it's resistant to some commonly used antibiotics.

Generally, people do not contract MRSA, and when they do, their immune systems generally fight it off. However, if the person has an open cut or wound that can be infected, or if the person has respiratory or immune deficiencies, MRSA can become quite virulent.

Personnel Concepts' MRSA Awareness Poster gives full details on this particular staph, along with steps to take to prevent and/or lessen its spread.