define staph infection
[edit on Wikidata] Staphylococcus is a genus of Gram-positive bacteria that can cause a wide variety of infections in humans and other animals through infection or the production of toxins. Staphylococcal toxins are a common cause of food poisoning, as they can be produced in improperly-stored food. Staphylococci are also known to be a cause of bacterial conjunctivitis. Staphylococcus aureus can cause a number of different skin diseases. Among neurosurgical patients, it can cause community-acquired meningitis.