Detection of methicillin-resistant and methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus among pigs in different stages of production

Several European studies have found different levels of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) prevalence in pig farms ranging from 3 to 60% (EFSA 2009). A number of studies have found an association between the presence of S. aureus strains (MRSA and MSSA) on farm and carriage of these organisms by humans on those farms (van Cleef et al. 2014). The risk of acquisition of MRSA in human is considered to be directly related to frequency and type of contact with animals that are carrying the pathogen (Graveland et al. 2011). However, limited studies have been conducted regarding carriage of these pathogens in Australian pigs. The aim of this study was to detect and identify potential risk factors for MRSA and MSSA carriage among pigs at various stages of production in farms where persistent outbreaks of human MRSA has been reported among piggery employees