Prevalence of livestock-associated MRSA in communities with high pig-densities in the Netherlands

Brigitte A. Van Cleef, Erwin J.M. Verkade, Mireille W. Wulf, Anton G. Buiting, Andreas Voss, Xander W. Huijsdens, Wilfrid Van Pelt, Mick N. Mulders, Jan A. Kluytmans

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102 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Background: Recently, livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus CC398 has been discovered in animals, livestock farmers and retail meat. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the spread to persons not in direct contact with livestock in areas with a high density of pig farms. Methodology/Principal Findings: With a random mailing in 3 selected municipalities in the Netherlands, adult persons were asked to fill in a questionnaire and to take a nose swab. In total, complete information was obtained on 583 persons. Of the 534 persons without livestock-contact, one was positive for MRSA (0.2%; 95% confidence interval, <0.01-1.2). Of the 49 persons who did indicate to be working at or living on a livestock farm, 13 were positive for MRSA (26.5%; 95% confidence interval, 16.1-40.4). All spa-types belonged to CC398. Conclusions/Significance:Livestock-associated MRSA has a high prevalence in people with direct contact with animals. At this moment it has not spread from the farms into the community.

Original languageEnglish
Article numbere9385
JournalPLoS ONE
Volume5
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 25 Feb 2010
Externally publishedYes

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