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Large outbreak caused by methicillin resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius ST71 in a Finnish Veterinary Teaching

Thomas Grönthal1, Arshnee Moodley2, Suvi Nykäsenoja3

  • 1Central Laboratory, Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.

Plos One
|October 22, 2014
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

A nosocomial outbreak of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) in pets was challenging to control. Key risk factors for MRSP acquisition included skin lesions, antimicrobial treatment, and extended hospital stays.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • A nosocomial outbreak of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) occurred at a veterinary teaching hospital.
  • The outbreak involved both dogs and cats between November 2010 and January 2012.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the MRSP outbreak (ST71 SCCmec II-III).
  • To identify risk factors for MRSP acquisition in companion animals.
  • To present outbreak control measures and prevention policies.

Main Methods:

  • A case-control study analyzed 55 MRSP cases and 213 controls.
  • Data were collected from hospital records and laboratory information systems.
  • MRSP isolates underwent pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), multi-locus sequence, and SCCmec typing.

Main Results:

  • Sixty-three MRSP cases were identified, with 27 infections.
  • PFGE indicated clonal spread of MRSP with a specific multi-drug resistant profile.
  • Significant risk factors included skin lesions (OR=6.2), antimicrobial treatment (OR=3.8), and prolonged ICU/surgery ward stays.

Conclusions:

  • Multidrug-resistant MRSP can cause difficult-to-control nosocomial outbreaks in animal hospitals.
  • Skin lesions, antibiotic use, and extended hospitalization increase MRSP acquisition risk.
  • A 'search-and-isolate' policy is recommended for MRSP prevention and control.

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