Spread Of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Research Articles

Prevalence of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Livestock in Japan: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an important health issue that is estimated to have caused 130,000 deaths worldwide in 2021. As more instances of cross-species transmission of MRSA have been reported, concerns have been raised regarding the spread of livestock-associated MRSA to humans. The prevalence of MRSA in livestock varies globally. This study systematically reviews the prevalence of MRSA at the farm and animal levels in Japan. Methods: Relevant studies published in English or Japanese between 2000 and 2023 were retrieved from four databases. Pooled prevalences at the farm and animal levels in Japanese farms were calculated using a random-effects model. Subgroup and meta-regression analyses were also performed to explore sources of heterogeneity. Results: The 13 studies included in this meta-analysis yielded an MRSA prevalence of 3.54% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.65–8.30%) at the individual pig level, 13.07% (95% CI 5.42–23.04%) at the pig farm level, 0.0% (95% CI 0.00–0.04%) at the individual cattle level, and 0% (95% CI 0.00–0.44%) at the individual chicken level. A significant increase in MRSA prevalence over time was evident at the individual pig level by both subgroup analysis (p = 0.020) and meta-regression (p = 0.019). Conclusions: Our results indicated that the proportion of pigs that can be a source of MRSA infection in humans has been steadily increasing in Japan. Despite some limitations, our findings strongly imply a need for more attention to pig-to-human MRSA transmission in Japan.

Exploring phenotypic and genotypic diversity among methicillin-resistant, vancomycin-resistant, and sensitive Staphylococcus aureus

Background: Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a global concern owing to the increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains. Vancomycin has been the primary treatment for MRSA; however, Vancomycin-resistant strains are being increasingly reported worldwide. Therefore, comparative studies are essential to support antimicrobial stewardship and improving clinical management. Ultimately, the findings from this study are expected to inform treatment strategies and guide public health interventions effectively. Material and methods: This study investigated the prevalence, antimicrobial resistance, and virulence characteristics of Vancomycin-sensitive S. aureus (VSSA) and Vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (VRSA) within MRSA strains. By employing a combination of phenotypic methods, such as antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and genotypic techniques, including molecular typing and identification of virulence genes, we obtained comprehensive insights into VRSA and VSSA profiles. Results: Of 250 clinical samples, 62 (24.8%) were S. aureus and 27 (43.5%) were identified as MRSA. All MRSA isolates exhibited MDR patterns. Most MRSA strains were VSSA (20/27, 74.1%), while 7 (25.9%) were VRSA. The VRSA isolates showed more antimicrobial resistance than VSSA isolates; however, the VRSA isolates had less virulence than VSSA isolates. Linezolid was the most effective treatment, with a 3.7% resistance rate. A higher percentage of biofilm-producing MRSA (96.3%) was confirmed by both phenotypic and genotypic methods. All isolates, except one VRSA, showed multi-virulence patterns (harbored more than 3 virulence genes). High diversity and low clonality (D-value = 0.99) were found in both VSSA and VRSA. Based on our correlation findings, the emergence of vancomycin resistance could modify the association between antimicrobial resistance and virulence, potentially affecting the pathogenic profile of these strains. The study also revealed complex interactions among host factors (including age and gender), sample origin, antimicrobial resistance, biofilm production, and virulence genes. Conclusion: This study highlights the alarming spread of MRSA and VRSA, which show significant resistance and virulence.

Nasal carriage of multi-drug resistance Staphylococcus aureus constitutes potential zoonosis from poultry farmers and butchers in slaughterhouses in Abakaliki, Ebonyi state, Nigeria

BackgroundIn Nigeria, poultry farming contributes significantly to the economy. Antibiotic use in poultry farming may promote the emergence of multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, a pathogen of human diseases that inhabit body cavities like the nostrils. This study assessed multi-drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in nasal carriage among poultry farmers and butchers in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.MethodsA total of 300 nasal swabs of poultry farmers and butchers in slaughters from New Layout Market and Josephine Elechi Poultry Farm were analyzed in the Microbiology Laboratory Unit of Ebonyi State University.ResultsResults showed that Staphylococcus aureus occurrence rates were 20% (poultry farm A), 17% (poultry farm B), 15% (poultry slaughter A), and 16% (poultry slaughter B). Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) prevalence rates were 11% (39 handlers) and 14% (39 butchers). Antibiotic sensitivity tests revealed high resistance to lincomycin (100%), clindamycin (100%), doxycycline (94.7%), vancomycin (89.5%), erythromycin (89.5%), trimethoprim (73.3%), and ciprofloxacin (60.5%) in poultry farm A. Poultry Farm B samples exhibited resistance to doxycycline (93%), trimethoprim (72%), vancomycin (86.1%), erythromycin (83.7%), lincomycin (100%), and piperacillin-tazobactam (95.4%). Poultry slaughter A samples displayed resistance to doxycycline (100%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (80%), vancomycin (86.7%), erythromycin (93.3%), lincomycin (100%), and clindamycin (100%), while samples from poultry slaughter B showed resistance to erythromycin (100%), lincomycin (100%), clindamycin (100%), doxycycline (92.6%), vancomycin (88.9%), and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (74.1%). Multiple antibiotics resistance index (MARI) was 0.7 among poultry farmers and 0.6 among poultry butchers provokes great concern.ConclusionTherefore, our findings emphasized the importance of judicious antibiotic use and preventive measures to control MRSA spread in the poultry industry.

Genomic portraits of methicillin-resistant staphylococci (MRS) from food fish unveiled the genes associated with staphylococcal food poisoning (SFP), virulence and antimicrobial resistance

BackgroundCharacteristics of non-clinical strains of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) especially from fishery environment are poorly understood. This research, in addition to comprehensive characterisation, sought to delineate the genetic relatedness between the MRSA strains originating from clinical as well as non-clinical settings. Out of 39 methicillin-resistant staphylococcal isolates from 197 fish samples, 6 (Three each of methicillin-resistant S. haemolyticus (MRSH) and MRSA) with distinct resistance profiles were selected for whole-genome sequencing. Using respective bioinformatics tools, MRSA genomes were comprehensively characterized for resistome, virulomes, molecular epidemiology and phylogenetic analysis. Simultaneously, MRSH genomes were specifically examined to characterize antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs), owing to the fact that MRSH is often recognized as a reservoir for resistance determinants.ResultsThree MRSA clones identified in this study include ST672-IVd/t13599 (sequence type-SCCmec type/spa type), ST88-V/t2526, and ST672-IVa/t1309. Though, the isolates were phenotypically vancomycin-sensitive, five of the six genomes carried vancomycin resistance genes including the VanT (VanG cluster) or VanY (VanM cluster). Among the three MRSA, only one harbored the gene encoding Panton-Valentine Leukocidin (PVL) toxin, while staphylococcal enterotoxin (SEs) genes such as sea and seb, associated with staphylococcal food poisoning were identified in two other MRSA. Genomes of MRSH carried a composite of type V staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec) elements (5C2 & 5). This finding may be explained by the inversion and recombination events that may facilitate the integration of type V elements to the SCC elements of S. aureus with a methicillin-susceptible phenotype. Phylogenetically, MRSA from a non-clinical setting displayed a considerable relatedness to that from clinical settings.ConclusionThis study highlights the genetic diversity and resistance profiles of MRSA and MRSH, with non-clinical MRSA showing notable relatedness to clinical strains. Future research should explore resistance gene transfer mechanisms and environmental reservoirs to better manage MRSA spread.

Impact of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) in livestock farming, animal products and its mitigation strategies with medicinal plants: A brief review

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is any strain of S. aureus that has developed multiple drug resistance to antibiotics. MRSA could be a highly pathogenic strain of bacteria causing thousands of deaths in humans. Detection of MRSA in foodstuffs of animal origin has been widely reported and has raised public health concerns about the transmission of MRSA from foodstuffs of animal origin to humans. There are many reports of MRSA infections originating from dairy cow;s milk, milk products, and livestock along with MRSA transmission between farmers working in livestock farms including people working within the dairy industry. Significant differences in the spread of cases of MRSA infection originating from milk and milk products are reported among various countries around the world. This difference could also be caused by different livestock production management systems in numerous countries within the world. Animal products contaminated with MRSA are going to be a possible transmission of MRSA to humans causing serious health problems leading to tremendous public health concerns. The milking process administered by farmers and the processing of milk for milk products are often risk factors for the transmission of MRSA to humans. Contamination of MRSA in milk and milk products and other animal products could be a major reason for the malady. Several antibiotics of choice are often employed in treating patients who experience poisoning with milk and milk products like fluoroquinolone, tetracyclines, lincosamide, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Adherence to good hygiene practices during milking, processing, and handling of dairy cattle can significantly minimize MRSA contamination of milk and dairy products. The objective of this review is to summarize the risk factors for the occurrence and spread of MRSA in dairy herds and to identify the respective knowledge gaps. This review focuses on common causes of MRSA infection and used antibiotics combined with herbal extracts against MRSA and the corresponding mechanisms. Through systematic analysis, we found that herbal extracts combined with antibiotics, such as β-lactams, quinolones, aminoglycosides, tetracyclines, and glycopeptides, could greatly enhance the antibacterial effects of the antibiotics, reduce the dosage and toxic side effects, and reverse MRSA resistance. Therefore, it can be concluded that herbal extracts combined with antibiotics may be a promising strategy to combat MRSA. This review provides a novel idea for overcoming antibiotic resistance.

Prevalence of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Saudi Arabia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a public health concern due to its capacity to build biofilms and acquire drug resistance. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to analyze the prevalence of MRSA in Saudi Arabia and look into its resistance to various antibiotics. A comprehensive systematic search for key scientific databases from 1990 to June 2024 was carried out using predetermined keywords. MRSA prevalence rates were examined in studies that met the inclusion criteria, with an emphasis on clinical and community settings. The MedCalc software was used to conduct statistical analysis. The meta-analysis includes 24 trials with 16,646 samples. The overall prevalence of MRSA was discovered to be 8.601% (fixed effects) and 17.027% (random effects), with confidence ranges of 8.179-9.037 and 12.503-22.091, respectively. The research showed substantial antibiotic resistance, notably to β-lactams, whereas vancomycin remained effective against most MRSA strains. The data show an alarming incidence of MRSA in hospital settings, as well as significant resistance to numerous antibiotic classes, emphasizing the importance of improved infection control strategies and sensible antibiotic usage. Geographic differences in resistance patterns point to regional factors impacting MRSA spread and resistance. This analysis highlights the significant prevalence of MRSA in Saudi clinical settings, as well as the complexities of its resistance profiles. Continued observation and study into the genetic mechanisms that contribute to resistance are critical for successful MRSA infection management and prevention.

Dynamical analysis of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection in North Cyprus with optimal control: prevalence and awareness

The number of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) cases in communities and hospitals is on the rise worldwide. In this work, a nonlinear deterministic model for the dynamics of MRSA infection in society was developed to visualize the significance of awareness in interventions that could be applied in the prevention of transmission with and without optimal control. Positivity and uniqueness were verified for the proposed corruption model to identify the level of resolution of infection factors in society. Furthermore, how various parameters affect the reproductive number R0\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$${R}_{0}$$\\end{document} and sensitivity analysis of the proposed model was explored through mathematical techniques and figures. The global stability of model equilibria analysis was established by using Lyapunov functions with the first derivative test. A total of seven years of data gathered from a private hospital consisting of inpatients and outpatients of MRSA were used in this model for numerical simulations and for observing the dynamics of infection by using a non-standard finite difference (NSFD) scheme. When optimal control was applied as a second model, it was determined that increasing awareness of hand hygiene and wearing a mask were the key controlling measures to prevent the spread of community-acquired MRSA (CA-MRSA) and hospital-acquired MRSA (HA-MRSA). Lastly, it was concluded that both CA-MRSA and HA-MRSA cases are on the rise in the community, and increasing awareness concerning transmission is extremely significant in preventing further spread.

Comparison of the effectiveness of core genome multilocus sequence typing and polymerase chain reaction-based open reading frame typing in tracing nosocomial methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus transmission

IntroductionA clonal shift from staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec) type II/ST5 methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) to SCCmec type IV/clonal complex (CC)1 MRSA has occurred rapidly in Japan. Our previous research in a geriatric hospital found SCCmec type IV/CC1 MRSA prevalence in long-term care wards. Due to intensive personal care requirements, frequent contact with healthcare providers can potentially cause unintentional nosocomial MRSA transmission. We performed polymerase chain reaction-based open reading frame typing (POT) and core genome multilocus sequence typing (cgMLST) to investigate the occurrence of nosocomial transmission and to compare the results of these methods. MethodsPOT and whole genome sequencing were performed in 83 MRSA isolates. Commercial automated software (Ridom SeqSphere+) was used to perform cgMLST. MRSA isolates with 0–8 allelic differences were considered related, and medical records were consulted in these cases. ResultsSCCmec type IV/CC1 MRSA was the most frequently detected clone (n = 56, 67.5 %), which was divided into 14 POT types, followed by SCCmec type I/ST8 (n = 9) and SCCmec type IV/ST8 (n = 8). Identical POT types were found across 7 of 11 wards. However, cgMLST analysis identified only three cases (six strains) of high genetic similarity, indicating nosocomial transmission; only one involved SCCmec type IV/CC1 (two strains). The mean allelic difference in the core genomes between strains with identical POT types in the same ward was 55.3 ± 22.0. ConclusionsThe cgMLST method proved more effective for identifying nosocomial transmissions compared to POT, highlighting its utility in tracking MRSA spread in healthcare settings.

Genome-based surveillance reveals cross-transmission of MRSA ST59 between humans and retail livestock products in Hanzhong, China.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has been recognized in hospitals, community and livestock animals and the epidemiology of MRSA is undergoing a major evolution among humans and animals in the last decade. This study investigated the prevalence of MRSA isolates from ground pork, retail whole chicken, and patient samples in Hanzhong, China. The further characterization was performed by antimicrobial susceptibility testing and in-depth genome-based analysis to identify the resistant determinants and their phylogenetic relationship. A total of 93 MRSA isolates were recovered from patients (n = 67) and retail livestock products (n = 26) in Hanzhong, China. 83.9% (78/93) MRSA isolates showed multiple drug resistant phenotype. Three dominant livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA) sequence types were identified: ST59-t437 (n = 47), ST9-t899 (n = 10) and ST398 (n = 7). There was a wide variation among sequence types in the distribution of tetracycline-resistance, scn-negative livestock markers and virulence genes. A previous major human MRSA ST59 became the predominant interspecies MRSA sequence type among humans and retail livestock products. A few LA-MRSA isolates from patients and livestock products showed close genetic similarity. The spreading of MRSA ST59 among livestock products deserving special attention and active surveillance should be enacted for the further epidemic spread of MRSA ST59 in China. Data generated from this study will contribute to formulation of new strategies for combating spread of MRSA.

An exploration of mechanisms underlying Desemzia incerta colonization resistance to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus on the skin.

Colonization of human skin and nares by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) leads to the community spread of MRSA. This spread is exacerbated by the transfer of MRSA between humans and livestock, particularly swine. Here, we capitalized on the shared features between human and porcine skin, including shared MRSA colonization, to study novel bacterial mediators of MRSA colonization resistance. We focused on the poorly studied bacterial species Desemzia incerta, which we found to exert antimicrobial activity through a secreted product and exhibited colonization resistance against MRSA in an in vivo murine skin model. Using parallel genomic and biochemical investigation, we discovered that D. incerta secretes an antimicrobial protein. Sequential protein purification and proteomics analysis identified 24 candidate inhibitory proteins, including a promising peptidoglycan hydrolase candidate. Aided by transcriptional analysis of D. incerta and MRSA cocultures, we found that exposure to D. incerta leads to decreased MRSA biofilm production. These results emphasize the value of exploring microbial communities across a spectrum of hosts, which can lead to novel therapeutic agents as well as an increased understanding of microbial competition.IMPORTANCEMethicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) causes a significant healthcare burden and can be spread to the human population via livestock transmission. Members of the skin microbiome can prevent MRSA colonization via a poorly understood phenomenon known as colonization resistance. Here, we studied the colonization resistance of S. aureus by bacterial inhibitors previously identified from a porcine skin model. We identify a pig skin commensal, Desemzia incerta, that reduced MRSA colonization in a murine model. We employ a combination of genomic, proteomic, and transcriptomic analyses to explore the mechanisms of inhibition between D. incerta and S. aureus. We identify 24 candidate antimicrobial proteins secreted by D. incerta that could be responsible for its antimicrobial activity. We also find that exposure to D. incerta leads to decreased S. aureus biofilm formation. These findings show that the livestock transmission of MRSA can be exploited to uncover novel mechanisms of MRSA colonization resistance.

The Prevalence and Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic in a Tertiary Saudi Hospital.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcusaureus (MRSA) has become a major public health problem all over the world. After the 2019 coronavirus illness (COVID-19), the pandemic may have influenced research priorities and resource allocation, potentially affecting the ability to monitor MRSA trends. The study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of S. aureus, including MRSA infections, and their antimicrobial susceptibilities over the years 2019 and 2020 in a tertiary hospital in Makkah City, KSA. A total of 2128 and 1515 laboratory (lab) samples were collected during the years 2019 and 2020, respectively. From these samples, the prevalence of S. aureus, including MRSA, and their antibiotic susceptibility were identified using standard, automated, and molecular microbiological methods. The present study shows that the lab prevalence ofall S. aureus during 2019 was found to be 35.5%, of which MRSA was 44.8%. During 2020, the frequency of S. aureus strains was 16%, of which MRSA was 41.2%. The most common MRSA isolated during both years were colonizing pus swabs and urine samples. The results showed that MRSA susceptibility against antimicrobial agents in 2019 was as follows: vancomycin (100%), linezolid (100%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (88%), and doxycycline (34.2%). The MRSA strains isolated during 2020 were as follows: vancomycin (100%), linezolid (96%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (100%), and doxycycline (24.3%). There was no significant difference in the incidence and antimicrobial resistance rates of MRSA over the two years. It was concluded that the prevalence rates of MRSA have not increased in 2020 when compared to 2019. Vancomycin, linezolid, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, and doxycycline remain susceptible to the positive collected MRSA strains. There was no significant difference between the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance rates of MRSA between 2019 and 2020. Continued research efforts are needed to address this persistent public health threat. Strategies to control the spread of MRSA should include early detection of MRSA and surveillance, even during pandemics.

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Colonization in Intensive Care and Burn Units: A Narrative Review.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a common hospital-acquired pathogen and can cause a wide spectrum of infections. In recent years, MRSA has emerged as a significant public health concern, particularly in hospitals. Intensive care units (ICUs) and burn units are high-risk areas for hospital-acquired MRSA infections, which can lead to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. MRSA exhibits resistance to multiple antibiotics and can cause serious infections, including but not limited to pneumonia, endocarditis, and cutaneous infections, particularly in patients with burn injuries. The prevention and effective management of MRSA infections in both burn patients and those in ICUs is crucial, with strategies like isolation, regular disinfection, and prophylactic intranasal mupirocin. Early diagnosis of MRSA infection and isolation of patients is vital to prevent the spread of MRSA. Implementation of prevention strategies faces many challenges, such as cost, and the most successful infection management practices are still debated. This review has highlighted the substantial concern of MRSA colonization in intensive care and burn units. MRSA poses a significant risk to vulnerable patients, influenced by factors such as compromised immunity and invasive procedures. The prevalence of MRSA colonization varies, influenced by regional factors and infection control practices. Combating MRSA requires a multifaceted approach, including stringent infection control measures and education for healthcare workers and patients. As we move forward, continued research and cooperation are essential to reduce the burden of MRSA in these critical care settings.

SCREENING OF METHICILLIN-RESISTANT STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS AND THEIR ANTIBIOTIC SUSCEPTIBILITY PATTERN IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Objective: Colonization of Staphylococcus aureus in the nasal flora has been proven to play an important role in the transmission of infections. Health care workers carrying Staphylococcus aureus in their nose or skin play an important role in cross-contamination and thus result in Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) related hospital-acquired or community-acquired infections. Implementation of hand hygiene methods and standard precautions are helpful in reducing transmission and controlling spread. Screening for carriage of MRSA is fundamental step in nosocomial infection control. The present study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of MRSA carriage rate and study their antibiogram.
 Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of six months and samples from 185 HCWs working in high-risk areas were processed by standard protocols. As per CLSI guidelines, MRSA detection by disc diffusion method using Cefoxitin disc (30μg) and further determined by Epsilometer test (E-test) by interpreting Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values (mcg/ml).
 Results: Out of 185 nasal swabs, 53 were Staphylococcus aureus isolates. MRSA colonization is seen in (8.64%) samples. Preponderance was seen in staff nurses (10.16%). Antibiogram of MRSA isolates showed sensitivity to Vancomycin and linezolid.
 Conclusion: The present study was undertaken to screen nasal carriage of MRSA among healthcare workers, as they pose a potential risk factor for nosocomial transmission leading to MRSA outbreaks. The strengthening of Infection prevention and control measures institutionalization of antimicrobial stewardship programs helps in curbing the spread of MRSA.

Molecular characterization of MRSA collected during national surveillance between 2008 and 2019 in the Netherlands

Background.Although the Netherlands is a country with a low endemic level, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a significant health care problem. Therefore, high coverage national MRSA surveillance has been in place since 1989. To monitor possible changes in the type-distribution and emergence of resistance and virulence, MRSA isolates are molecularly characterized.Methods.All 43,321 isolates from 36,520 persons, collected 2008–2019, were typed by multiple-locus variable number tandem repeats analysis (MLVA) with simultaneous PCR detection of the mecA, mecC and lukF-PV genes, indicative for PVL. Next-generation sequencing data of 4991 isolates from 4798 persons were used for whole genome multi-locus sequence typing (wgMLST) and identification of resistance and virulence genes.Results.We show temporal change in the molecular characteristics of the MRSA population with the proportion of PVL-positive isolates increasing from 15% in 2008–2010 to 25% in 2017–2019. In livestock-associated MRSA obtained from humans, PVL-positivity increases to 6% in 2017–2019 with isolates predominantly from regions with few pig farms. wgMLST reveals the presence of 35 genogroups with distinct resistance, virulence gene profiles and specimen origin. Typing shows prolonged persistent MRSA carriage with a mean carriage period of 407 days. There is a clear spatial and a weak temporal relationship between isolates that clustered in wgMLST, indicative for regional spread of MRSA strains.Conclusions.Using molecular characterization, this exceptionally large study shows genomic changes in the MRSA population at the national level. It reveals waxing and waning of types and genogroups and an increasing proportion of PVL-positive MRSA.

PHENOTYPIC DETERMINATION OF INDUCIBLE CLINDAMYCIN RESISTANT AND METHICILLIN RESISTANT STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS FROM CLINICAL ISOLATES OF KHYBER TEACHING HOSPITAL, PESHAWAR

Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major pathogen involved in nosocomial infections and to some extent, in community acquired infections. Among Macrolide Lincosamine Streptogramin B (MLSB) class of drugs, Clindamycin was vigorously preferred for treating staphylococcal infections in the past few decades but, some genetic factors i.e. erm and msrA genes contribute in developing Inducible Clindamycin Resistance (iCR). Sensitivity tests performed on a routine basis cannot detect inducible resistance and may result in the failure of Clindamycin to be used as an effective medication. This study aimed to detect the phenotype of MRSA and iCR S. aureus from the clinical samples of Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar. A total of 204 samples were collected randomly from each gender, 130 (63.72%) samples were isolated as S. aureus, while 74 (36.27%) were other bacterial species. Double disk diffusion (D-test) was performed to detect iCR phenotype, and 80 (61.5%) isolates showed iCR, while 50 (38.4%) were negative in this regard. MRSA phenotype was determined by strains conferring resistance to Cefoxitin antibiotic, which resulted in 84 (64.6%) isolates of MRSA and 46 (35.3%) of Methicillin Sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA). Antibiogram analysis showed efficient antimicrobial activity by Tigecycline 129 (99.2%), Fusidic Acid 126 (96.9%), and Doxycycline 124 (95.3%), while the highest resistance pattern was recorded against Ciprofloxacin 31(23.8%) and Clindamycin 28(21.5%). Our study concludes that misuse of antibiotics should be avoided to inhibit the spread of MRSA, and implementation of D-test regularly in hospitals is crucial.

Investigation and mapping of the prevalence of “superbugs” Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern in Enugu metropolis in Southeast Nigeria

Global public health is threatened by increasing incidence of Antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), usually referred to as “superbug, is a prominent AMR that is generating concerns across the world. They are resistant to commonly used antibiotics, thereby making treatment of common infections very difficult; resulting in prolonged illness and hospitalisation, disability and in some cases, death. Despite the concerns and threats posed by MRSA, studies of its prevalence in communities across Nigeria are scanty. Here, we investigated the prevalence of MRSA in the South East Nigeria using isolates obtained from two major hospitals in Enugu metropolis and a medical laboratory. The isolates were clinically identified from different specimens and pure isolates were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility profiling using conventional antibiotics. Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques were used to analyse the anonymised three year MRSA records. This provided relevant insights on the spatial spread of MRSA in the city. This research serves as a first step towards modelling its spatial epidemiology in the region. Results indicated that cases of MRSA were widespread in the city. Majority of MRSA were resistant to the antibiotics indicating that they are multidrug-resistant (MDR). Spatiotemporal analyses conducted showed that incidence of MRSA was increasing by the year.

Molecular Surveillance of MRSA in Raw Milk Provides Insight into MRSA Cross Species Evolution.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in foods has been associated with severe infections in humans and animals worldwide. In the present study, the molecular characteristics of livestock-associated MRSA (LA-MRSA) and human-associated MRSA (hMRSA) isolates obtained in China, as well as MRSA isolates obtained from raw milk in 2018, were investigated. In total, 343 (20.38%; 343/1,683) S. aureus isolates were obtained from 1,683 raw milk samples from 100 dairy farms in 11 provinces across China. Among these, 49 (2.91%; 49/1,683) were mecA-positive MRSA. All LA-MRSA isolates were resistant to penicillin and highly resistant to erythromycin, sulfisoxazole, and clindamycin. Bioinformatic analysis the 49 genomes of LA-MRSA and 71 previously published hMRSA genomes isolated from Chinese individuals in 2018 indicated that blaZ, erm, ant(6)-Ia, aph(3')-III, tet(K), cat, and aph(2″)-Ia were more prevalent in MRSA from raw milk (P < 0.05) compared to hMRSA. Additionally, hMRSA isolates were more significantly associated with ST5 (P < 0.01) compared to LA-MRSA; in contrast, ST338 was more prevalent among LA-MRSA isolates (P < 0.01). Likewise, the SCCmec type II was only detected in hMRSA isolates, whereas SCCmec type V and IV were more prevalent among LA-MRSA (P < 0.01). Furthermore, core-genome phylogenetic analysis showed the endemic characteristics of LA-MRSA in local provinces, as well as the close evolutionary relationships between MRSA from cattle and humans. Finally, homology analysis of mecA and blaZ genetic contexts revealed a high possibility of horizontal transmission of MRSA resistance genes among raw milk-associated and hMRSA strains, which increases the risk for public health. IMPORTANCE Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is considered a public health concern as it is resistant to multiple antibiotics, thus being in zoonotic transmission of antibiotic resistance genes. MRSA causes serious public health issues and leads to hard-to-treat infections in humans and animals; therefore, it was meaningful to determine the prevalence of MRSA in raw milk samples and investigate phenotype and genotype of antimicrobial resistance and molecular characteristics in livestock-associated MRSA (LA-MRSA) and human-associated MRSA (hMRSA) in China, which could provide a theoretical basis for preventing and controlling the spread of MRSA between livestock and humans.

The role of food in the spread of the Methicillin – resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) are important human pathogen. It is present in a wide range of animal species (pigs, cows, sheep, and chickens) even in healthy animals. Identification of MRSA in foods has led to concerns about the role of livestock in the epidemiology of MRSA infections in human. This review focuses on the spread of MRSA in different types of food and its antimicrobial resistance to the most widely used antimicrobials in human and veterinary medicine. The results of review indicates that livestock is major source of MRSA in humans and mainly transmitted to humans through contaminated food. The actual prevalence of MRSA in animals and food as well as impact to the human health is not well understood. It is clearly that MRSA is an important pathogen to veterinary medicine and human health which requires more and in-depth research to understand the hazard and take effective measures to limit it.

Pet animals as reservoirs for spreading methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus to human health.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a strain of pathogenic bacteria that is a major problem in the world's health. Due to their frequent interaction with humans, pets are one of the main risk factors for the spread of MRSA. The possibility for zoonotic transmission exists since frequently kept dogs and cats are prone to contract MRSA and act as reservoirs for spreading MRSA. The mouth, nose, and perineum are the primary locations of MRSA colonization, according to the findings of MRSA identification tests conducted on pets. The types of MRSA clones identified in cats and dogs correlated with MRSA clones infecting humans living in the same geographic area. A significant risk factor for the colonization or transmission of MRSA is human-pet contact. An essential step in preventing the spread of MRSA from humans to animals and from animals to humans is to keep hands, clothing, and floor surfaces clean.

Prevalence of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus with Their Susceptibility Pattern and Their Association of Panton-Valentine Leukocidin Gene in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Bangladesh

Background: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a substantial public health problem worldwide, causing significant morbidity and mortality. The emergence and spread of MRSA has made infection control intervention and treatment challenging.