What is MRSA?
The official translation of MRSA is methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus. Humans may have the staphylococcus aureus bacteria on their skin and never get an infection. But when the bacterium penetrates the skin, it can cause multiple infections such as boils, skin wounds and sores. When it travels into the blood stream, it can lead to critical infections and pneumonia.
How Does Staphylococcus Aureus Bacteria Spread?
The MRSA infection can spread from humans to animals and the other way around. When veterinary staff does not wash their hands correctly after handling colonized pets, the bacteria spreads. One study showed that dogs may function as reservoirs for MRSA. Workers in veterinary settings have more risk of carrying MRSA because of contact with infected animals and antimicrobial drugs.
Ways MRSA spreads to animals:
- Airborne bacteria/air flow
- Bacteria falling from the skin into an open wound
- Contamination at surgical sites; and contaminated instruments
- Direct contact; petting from an infected human
- Unclean hydrotherapy environments
- Sneezing and coughing (one of the respiratory MRSA symptoms); not covering mouth
Preventing the Spread of MRSA
Proper hand hygiene is the best way to avoid both kinds of MRSA. Although the infection can be treated, the best practice lies in prevention. A dog with a compromised immune system, or one who has just had surgery, is more prone to an infection. Keep your dog safe:
Perform effective hand- and body-washing techniques before and after petting animals Cover dog and human wounds properly
Respiratory MRSA and its Symptoms
A dog with a MRSA infection can get a host of lesions on his body. However, not all animals show symptoms. In some cases, dogs with the bacteria become sick. Others eliminate the organism altogether, or become colonized and do not develop any symptoms.
The most typical canine infections form in wounds or surgery sites. Infections may range from skin problems and pneumonia to meningitis, blood infection and heart problems.
Hospital Acquired Infections and MRSA
An infection that happens in the veterinary clinic or hospital is the main way a patient comes in contact with MRSA. This is when the person or animal goes into a facility for one condition, and comes down with a completely other infection. Research suggests that dogs taking part in animal-assisted programs in health care settings are more likely to acquire MRSA than non-service pets. Community-acquired MRSA happens when infections occur in healthy people or dogs that have not had recent medical procedures or hospitalization.
Treatment for Dogs with Respiratory MRSA
A MRSA infection is difficult to treat because some of the bacteria can become resistant to antibiotics. Although most dogs can effectively be treated with antibiotics, some may need to take a higher dosage for a longer period of time. A vet may also suggest isolating your dog from human contact until his infection is eliminated.