A new study revealed just how widespread and deadly antibiotic-resistant staph infections have become.

The new research shows skin infections caused by antibiotic-resistant staph bacteria have become a growing threat in the United States.

In 2005, there were more than 94,000 cases of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which contributed to more than 18,000 deaths, according to a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

A new government study out today says more than 90,000 Americans could get the potentially deadly "superbug" each year. It enters the bloodstream or turns into the so-called flesh-eating disease.

The overall incidence rate is about 32 invasive infections per 100,000 people. An editorial in tomorrow's Journal of the American Medical Association, which published the study, calls that number "astounding."

A North Texas nurse, Tammy Walton said she knows the importance of taking daily precautions.

"Hand washing is one of the most important things to help prevent the spread of infections," she said.

The vast majority of staph cases spread either in the hospital or after a healthcare encounter.

"I think if they would have looked in Dallas, Texas they would have found even more community onset of these infections," said Doug Hardy, an infectious disease specialist at UT Southwestern.

Dr. Hardy said a growing number of MRSA cases walk into his clinic each week.

Many staph infections come from dirty nail salon practices and school locker rooms. Health authorities say the study is further proof that good hygeine could be lifesaving.

Associated Press contributed to this report