Bacterial general

Bacterial Zoonoses

A bacterium is a member of a large group of unicellular microorganisms which have cell walls but lack organelles and an organised nucleus. The diseases caused by bacteria are known as bacterial diseases.

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MRSA

MRSA

MRSA stands for Methycillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus and they are a group of gram positive bacteria that is resistant to antibiotics. It is very difficult to treat this group of bacteria as they do not respond to antibiotics. It is a major cause of infection in many hospitals. Very recently a link between MRSA carriage and livestock and humans who work with animals was established. The role of pet animals in this chain of transmission is still not well defined. However, we can positively say that intimate contact with dogs and cats creates a higher chance of MRSA transmission.

TRANSMISSION

It is usually transmitted by direct contact with people or animals carrying the bacteria. Infection via contaminated wounds or sharing personal equipment’s like towels, combs, razors, napkins, etc can also take place. Almost 2% of the population carried MRSA however most of them are not serious. People with weaker immune systems, diseases or recent surgeries are more prone to MRSA.

CLINICAL SIGNS

In humans-

  • Most MRSA infections are cutaneous
  • Cellulitis or abscess observed
  • Pain and pus at the site of infection
  • This infection can become deeper and expansive if not treated
  • It can lead to myositis, osteomyelitis and necrotising pneumonia

In animals-

  • Fever
  • Discharge from a wound
  • Skin lesions
  • Skin swelling
  • Wounds that take a lot of time to heal

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosis is usually made through a bacterial culture. The sample can be collected from blood, tissue or pus.

PREVENTION & CONTROL

Basic hygiene practices are necessary to prevent and control the MRSA infections. A 20 second hand washing rule should be followed in every household. Hospitals and clinics should have alcohol-based sanitizers to use when ads are not very soiled. Infected wounds should be kept covered whether on people or on animals. Garbage bins should be kept covered at homes and in public places. Personal bare essentials like razors, combs, towels, etc should not be shared. Doctors should use PPE kits while dealing with MRSA infected patients.

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