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MRSA in small animal practice: an update
Author(s) -
Loeffler Anette
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
in practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.211
H-Index - 25
eISSN - 2042-7689
pISSN - 0263-841X
DOI - 10.1136/inpract.30.10.538
Subject(s) - carriage , medicine , veterinary medicine , infection control , methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus , antibiotic resistance , intensive care medicine , disease control , staphylococcus aureus , environmental health , microbiology and biotechnology , antibiotics , biology , pathology , bacteria , genetics
MOST cases of meticillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection in dogs and cats can be treated successfully as long as the underlying disease is identified and addressed concurrently. However, zoonotic implications, high rates of MRSA carriage among veterinary staff, concerns about promoting resistance with the use of antimicrobials in animals and practice infection control policies remain key issues arising from the spillover of this human pathogen into the veterinary field. In addition, responsible and comprehensive owner education is crucial to ensure public confidence in veterinary care. This article discusses the occurrence of MRSA in animals and highlights the clinical and diagnostic features of MRSA infection in dogs and cats. It also suggests some options for treatment and further management of cases, and outlines a number of general strategies to help prevent the spread of MRSA in the veterinary environment.