Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA): An Emerging Veterinary and Zoonotic Pathogen of Public Health Concern and Some Studies in Malaysia

摘要

A question was posed to the researchers as to whether methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus or MRSA, in animals is of public health concern. To answer the question, previous and recent studies were reviewed so as to gain insight into the occurrence of MRSA in animals, namely in food animals and pet animals, in food of animal origin, in personnel working with animals as well in pet owners. The MRSA scenario in Malaysia was also reviewed. The studies reviewed and those carried out in Malaysia showed the widespread occurrence of MRSA in animal species, which include pigs, horses, dogs, cats and chickens and in humans with several studies showed transmissions in both directions. Thus, MRSA is of great concern in both veterinary and human medicine as it can cause serious illnesses in both sets of populations.