Staphylococci are a type of cocci bacteria that form in grape-like clusters. They are Gram-positive bacteria and are facultative anaerobic organisms, meaning they are capable of growth both aerobically and anaerobically.

Staphylococcus bacteria are commonly found on the skin or in the nose of many healthy people. Most of the time, these bacteria cause no problems or cause relatively minor skin infections. However, staph infections can turn deadly if the bacteria invade deeper into your body, entering your bloodstream, joints, bones, lungs or heart.