Coagulase-Positive Staphylococcus: Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Microbiology
• Antimicrobial Resistance
• One Health

Background:

• Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is a primary cause of skin and soft tissue infections in companion animals.
• Coagulase-positive staphylococci (CoPS) are significant pathogens in both veterinary and human medicine.
• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) poses a growing threat in clinical settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of CoPS, including MRSP, in companion animals, veterinary professionals, and the clinical environment.
• To determine the antimicrobial resistance patterns of isolated CoPS species.
• To assess the potential for cross-contamination and dissemination of resistant strains within a veterinary setting.

Main Methods:

• Isolation of CoPS using Baird-Parker RPF agar and CHROMagar Staph aureus.
• Species identification confirmed by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
• Antimicrobial susceptibility testing performed on all isolates.

Main Results:

• Coagulase-positive staphylococci were found in 65.2% of companion animals, with 12 cases of S. pseudintermedius, including four MRSP.
• All veterinary professionals sampled carried CoPS on their hands.
• MRSP was detected on two of nine sampled objects, and multidrug-resistant CoPS were prevalent, particularly S. pseudintermedius.

Conclusions:

• Companion animals, veterinary professionals, and environmental objects serve as reservoirs for CoPS, including MRSP.
• The presence of multidrug-resistant S. pseudintermedius and potential cross-contamination indicate a risk for spreading antimicrobial resistance.
• Findings underscore the importance of infection control measures in veterinary environments to prevent the dissemination of resistant staphylococcal strains.