The outbreak of dangerous drug-resistant strains of staph infections is growing even faster than it has in years past. This year's widespread infections concern stands out from earlier outbreaks because now methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) aren't just in hospitals and other clinical settings; it's spreading to schools. Locker rooms and weight rooms are vulnerable, and sharing towels and athletic equipment are easy ways to spread infection.

It may come as a surprise to know that almost everyone will encounter staph at some point. Staph is the most common disease-causing bacteria in humans, but usually when our systems encounter it, we don't notice any effects or experience an infection.

But this year, with drug-resistant and invasive infections on the rise, it's even more important to take cautionary steps to avoid staph, and to know what to do if you're infected.