Characterisation and prevalence of community-associated MRSA among horses, dogs, cats and their human handlers: a cross-sectional study.

This study presents the findings on the existence of MRSA bacteria in animals such as horses, dogs and cats, as well as in their handlers. The results showed a high prevalence of this bacteria, particularly in dogs and their handlers, with potential implications for infection control measures and the use of antibiotics.

Research Methodology

• The research was conducted in the form of a cross-sectional study, and involved a total of 149 human participants who were responsible for the care and handling of 446 animals.
• The animals comprised of 240 horses and 206 companion animals such as dogs and cats.
• Samples from both the humans and the animals were tested for the presence of S. aureus and MRSA, using a polymerase chain reaction detection method.
• Furthermore, the samples were tested for the presence of nuc, mecA and mecC genes and the pvl gene to differentiate whether the MRSA was community associated, livestock associated or hospital associated.

Findings of the Study

• The study revealed that 26 samples (17.4% of total) from the human handlers displayed presence of S. aureus, while a higher percentage (38.1%) of samples from the animals were found sporting the bacteria.
• Further, the prevalence of MRSA among the samples was found to be 4.7% from humans and 4.3% from animals.
• In terms of species, it was found that dogs and their handlers displayed the highest isolation rates.
• They were also found to be more likely to be colonized by S. aureus and MRSA compared to horses, cats and their handlers.
• In terms of MRSA prevalence, the highest rates were seen from horses (5.0%) and dog handlers (10.6%).

Implications of the Study

• The study underscored a notable prevalence of MRSA in not just animals, but also in humans who handle these animals.
• As such, the findings carry significant implications for public health, especially in terms of driving antibiotic selection and usage.
• The study’s results are also relevant for infection control measures, especially given the roles the handlers play in the care and management of the animals they oversee.