What condition is described as a highly contagious bacterial infection resistant to certain antibiotics, typically identified by red, swollen, or painful wounds?

The condition described is Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA), which is known for being a highly contagious bacterial infection that can resist treatment with certain antibiotics, particularly methicillin and related drugs. This resistance makes MRSA challenging to treat and control, leading to potential outbreaks in community and healthcare settings.

MRSA commonly presents as red, swollen, or painful wounds, which can be mistaken for other skin infections. The ability of the bacteria to resist common antibiotics means that alternative therapies or more potent antibiotics may be required, emphasizing the importance of accurate identification and prompt treatment.

The other conditions listed, while involving bacteria, do not share the same characteristics regarding contagiousness or antibiotic resistance as MRSA. For instance, Streptococcus is known for causing various infections, but is not specifically noted for antibiotic resistance or the same type of contagious skin infections as MRSA. Escherichia coli, while sometimes pathogenic, is not typically associated with skin infections that present in the same manner as MRSA. Clostridium difficile, mainly known for causing severe gastrointestinal issues, does not relate to the symptoms described in the question.