Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: an emerging pathogen in small animals.
- Journal:
- Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association
- Year:
- 2005
- Authors:
- Weese, J Scott
- Affiliation:
- Department of Clinical Studies · Canada
Plain-English summary
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA, is a type of bacteria that can cause serious infections in both people and pets. While MRSA infections in pets are still rare, they are becoming more common, likely due to the increased presence of this bacteria in the community. Some pets may get very sick from MRSA, while others might only have mild symptoms or carry the bacteria without getting sick at all. It's important for veterinarians to be aware of MRSA and to know how to test for it and control its spread to help protect small animals. Overall, the rise of MRSA in pets is a growing concern that needs attention.
Abstract
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an important nosocomial pathogen in humans and is increasingly implicated in community-associated infections in people. In household pets, MRSA infections are uncommon but are on the rise, possibly because of the increased prevalence of human MRSA in the community. Clinical MRSA infections in some animals can be life threatening and difficult to treat; however, other animals may develop mild disease or only become colonized. Veterinarians should be aware of the concerns regarding MRSA and should develop an understanding of appropriate disease surveillance, diagnostic testing, and infection control in order to lessen the impact of MRSA on small animals.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15870248/