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Methicillin resistance gene diversity in staphylococci isolated from captive and free-ranging wallabies

Michelle M S Chen1, Wayne S J Boardman2,3,4, Melissa H Brown5

  • 1School of Biological Sciences, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Australia; michelle.chen@flinders.edu.au.

Infection Ecology & Epidemiology
|May 20, 2016
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Methicillin-resistant staphylococci (MRS) were found in 7.1% of wallabies in Australia. This low carriage rate suggests wallabies may be a reservoir for MRS, with potential for zoonotic transfer to humans.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Microbiology
  • Zoonotic Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Methicillin-resistant staphylococci (MRS) pose a significant public health risk due to life-threatening infections in humans.
  • The presence of MRS in animal populations raises concerns about potential transmission pathways and reservoirs.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of MRS in captive and free-ranging wallabies in South Australia.
  • To investigate potential associations between captivity status and MRS carriage in wallabies.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of 89 staphylococcal isolates from 98 wallaby nasal swabs.
  • Detection of mecA, mecA1, and mecC genes using multiplex PCR.
  • SCCmec and ccrB typing, and oxacillin minimal inhibitory concentration determination for mec-positive isolates.

Main Results:

  • 11 non-Staphylococcus aureus MRS isolates were identified from 7 out of 98 wallabies, indicating a 7.1% carriage rate.
  • SCCmec types I, III, and V were detected.
  • No significant association was found between wallaby captivity and MRS carriage.

Conclusions:

  • This study reports the first instance of MRS carriage in Australian wallabies, both captive and free-ranging.
  • Wallabies exhibit a low prevalence of MRS carriage but may serve as a reservoir for genetic exchange among staphylococci.
  • Identical mecA genes in wallaby and human MRS strains highlight the potential for zoonotic transmission.
Keywords:
SCCmecStaphylococcusmacropodsmethicillin-resistancewildlife

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