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Updated: Mar 26, 2026
Biosensor for Detection of Antibiotic Resistant Staphylococcus Bacteria
Published on: May 8, 2013
Detection of Airborne Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Inside and Downwind of a Swine Building, and in
Dwight D Ferguson1, Tara C Smith2,3, Blake M Hanson2
1a Department of Occupational and Environmental Health , University of Iowa , Iowa City , Iowa , USA.
Abstract:
Aerosolized methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was sampled inside and downwind of a swine facility. Animal feed was sampled before and after entry into the swine facility. Aerosolized particles were detected using an optical particle counter for real-time measurement and with an Andersen sampler to detect viable MRSA. Molecular typing and antimicrobial susceptibility testing were performed on samples collected. Viable MRSA organisms isolated inside the swine facility were primarily associated with particles >5 µm, and those isolated downwind from the swine facility were associated with particles <5 µm. MRSA isolates included spa types t008, t034, and t5706 and were resistant to methicillin, tetracycline, clindamycin, and erythromycin. Animal feed both before and after entry into the swine facility tested positive for viable MRSA. These isolates were of similar spa types as the airborne MRSA organisms. Air samples collected after power washing with a biocide inside the swine facility resulted in no viable MRSA organisms detected. This pilot study showed that the ecology of MRSA is complex. Additional studies are warranted on the maximum distance that viable MRSA can be emitted outside the facility, and the possibility that animal feed may be a source of contamination.
Insights
Aerosolized methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) from swine facilities can spread via particles. Animal feed may be a source, and particle size differs for MRSA found inside versus outside the facility.
Area of Science:
- Environmental microbiology
- Veterinary public health
- Infectious disease transmission
Background:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a significant public health concern.
- Swine facilities are potential reservoirs for MRSA.
- Understanding MRSA transmission dynamics is crucial for control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and characteristics of aerosolized MRSA originating from a swine facility.
- To determine the association of MRSA with particle sizes.
- To identify potential sources of MRSA contamination, such as animal feed.
Main Methods:
- Sampling of airborne MRSA inside and downwind of a swine facility.
- Sampling of animal feed before and after entering the facility.
- Real-time particle detection using an optical particle counter.
- Viable MRSA detection using an Andersen sampler.
- Molecular typing and antimicrobial susceptibility testing of MRSA isolates.
Main Results:
- Viable MRSA was detected inside the facility associated with particles >5 µm and downwind with particles <5 µm.
- MRSA isolates exhibited resistance to multiple antibiotics and included spa types t008, t034, and t5706.
- Animal feed tested positive for viable MRSA with spa types similar to airborne isolates.
- Power washing with a biocide eliminated detectable viable MRSA within the facility.
Conclusions:
- The ecology of MRSA in swine facilities is complex, involving airborne transmission and potential feed contamination.
- Further research is needed to determine MRSA emission distances and the role of animal feed as a source.
- Effective biosecurity measures, like cleaning protocols, can reduce MRSA presence.
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