Which bacterium is known for its resistance to methicillin?

The bacterium recognized for its resistance to methicillin is MRSA, which stands for Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus. MRSA is a specific strain of Staphylococcus aureus that has developed resistance to methicillin and other antibiotics commonly used to treat infections caused by Staphylococcus bacteria. This resistance occurs due to genetic mutations and the acquisition of resistance genes, making MRSA a significant concern in healthcare settings and community environments because it leads to infections that are more challenging to treat.

Understanding MRSA is crucial for healthcare providers, as it helps guide appropriate treatment options and infection control measures. For instance, while Staphylococcus aureus itself can be sensitive to antibiotics, MRSA's resistance to methicillin necessitates the use of alternative antibiotics, which may not be as effective or readily available.

Other options like E. coli and Streptococcus pneumoniae are notable for different types of infections and resistance patterns but are not specifically known for methicillin resistance. E. coli is primarily associated with urinary tract infections and other gastrointestinal issues, while Streptococcus pneumoniae can cause pneumonia and meningitis but also does not have the same methicillin resistance characteristic as MRSA.