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Updated: May 1, 2026
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Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus MRSA
Published on: February 10, 2011
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MRSA variant in companion animals.
Birgit Walther1, Lothar H Wieler, Szilvia Vincze
1Institute of Microbiology and Epizootics, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany. walther.birgit@vetmed.fu-berlin.de
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|November 23, 2012
Summary
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) harboring mecA(LGA251) was found in companion animals like cats, dogs, and guinea pigs. This finding suggests a potential zoonotic risk from pets carrying this specific MRSA strain.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Zoonotic Disease Research
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Background:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains carrying the mecA(LGA251) gene have been identified in human and ruminant populations.
- The prevalence and host range of this specific MRSA variant require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of MRSA harboring mecA(LGA251) in companion animals.
- To assess the potential for zoonotic transmission of this MRSA variant between animals and humans.
Main Methods:
- Database screening of MRSA isolates.
- Identification of MRSA variants based on genetic markers (mecA(LGA251)).
- Analysis of isolation data from companion animals in Germany (2008-2011).
Main Results:
- The mecA(LGA251)-positive MRSA variant was identified in cats, dogs, and a guinea pig.
- The MRSA variant was detected in Germany between 2008 and 2011.
- The study confirmed the presence of this MRSA variant beyond ruminant and human hosts.
Conclusions:
- The mecA(LGA251)-positive MRSA variant is not exclusively found in ruminants or humans.
- Companion animals can harbor this specific MRSA strain.
- Close contact with infected companion animals may represent a potential zoonotic risk for humans.
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