Scientists are finding dangerous staph bacteria in sand and water samples from five beaches along the coast of Washington state.

The germ is called MRSA.

It causes hard-to-treat skin infections and serious illnesses such as pneumonia.

MRSA is usually found in hospitals, but this is the first time it's been found at public beaches.

Researchers say the germ is probably at other beaches in the U.S. as well.

They say people shouldn't avoid the beach, just be sure to shower afterward.