What highly contagious skin infection is primarily caused by staphylococcus bacteria?

Impetigo is a highly contagious skin infection primarily caused by staphylococcus bacteria, specifically Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. This condition is characterized by the appearance of red sores or blisters, typically around the nose and mouth, which can quickly burst and form a honey-colored crust. Impetigo is particularly common in children and can spread rapidly through close contact or shared items, making effective hygiene practices essential to prevent outbreaks.

In contrast, herpes simplex is caused by the herpes simplex virus, eczema is an inflammatory skin condition often triggered by allergens or irritants, and psoriasis is an autoimmune disease leading to rapid skin cell proliferation and scaling. None of these options involve staphylococcus bacteria as their causative agent, highlighting why impetigo stands out as the correct answer.