Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 1, 2026

Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus MRSA
Published on: February 9, 2011
[Work-related MRSA CC398 carrier status had serious psychosocial consequences to a farmer]
Astrid Andersen1, Vivi Imer Hansen, Jakob Hjort Bønløkke
1jahb@rn.dk.
Abstract:
We describe a case of work-related methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) CC398 carrier status in a 33-year-old male working at a pig farm. The case was complicated since his pregnant girlfriend had also MRSA CC398 carrier status. Although she remained without contact to farm animals the MRSA could not be eradicated. Conflicting messages from healthcare workers complicated the case and the psychological consequences became traumatizing to the patient and caused sick leave and psychotherapy. This case shows the importance of better information of MRSA CC398-positive patients in the future, especially for MRSA-exposed occupations.
Insights
A pig farm worker developed methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) CC398 carrier status, complicating his pregnant girlfriend's health. Eradication proved difficult, highlighting the need for improved patient information in high-risk occupations.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) CC398 is a livestock-associated strain.
- Occupational exposure to MRSA CC398 can occur in agricultural settings.
- Understanding transmission dynamics is crucial for public health interventions.
Observation:
- A 33-year-old male pig farm worker presented with MRSA CC398 carrier status.
- His pregnant girlfriend also acquired MRSA CC398, despite no direct animal contact.
- The MRSA strain proved resistant to eradication efforts.
Findings:
- The case highlights potential human-to-human transmission of MRSA CC398 within close contacts.
- Healthcare communication inconsistencies complicated management and patient well-being.
- The patient experienced significant psychological distress, leading to sick leave and psychotherapy.
Implications:
- Improved patient education is essential for individuals in MRSA-exposed occupations.
- Clearer communication protocols among healthcare providers are needed for complex MRSA cases.
- Further research into MRSA CC398 transmission and eradication in occupational settings is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
Clinical Significance of Antibiotic Resistance
Psychological and Sociocultural Causes of Schizophrenia
Mismatch Repair
Mismatch Repair
The Mutator Protein Family Plays a Key Role in DNA Mismatch Repair
The human genome has more than 3 billion base pairs of DNA per cell. Prior to cell division, that vast amount of genetic...
Mechanism of Antibiotic Resistance in MRSA
Staphylococcal Skin Infections

