Which skin infection is highly contagious and may be caused by Staphylococcus?

Impetigo is a highly contagious skin infection that is often caused by Staphylococcus bacteria, specifically Staphylococcus aureus, although it can also be caused by Streptococcus species. This condition is characterized by the appearance of red sores or blisters that can rapidly develop into crusted lesions, usually on the face and hands. It spreads easily through direct contact with the sores or through items like towels or bedding that have been contaminated.

In contrast, candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by yeast, primarily Candida species, and is not considered contagious in the same manner. Herpes simplex is a viral infection that can transmit through skin-to-skin contact but is not caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus. Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and while they are contagious, they are not linked to Staphylococcus infections. Thus, the unique combination of its bacterial origin and contagious nature makes impetigo the correct identification in this question regarding skin infections.