Current Perspectives on Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Small Ruminants

Abstract

Staphylococcus aureus emerges as a critical pathogenic species within the Staphylococci genus, representing a significant opportunistic threat to human health. Its harmful effects on animal well-being and its ability to transfer between animals and humans render S. aureus a considerable hazard. This bacterium dramatically impacts animal health and welfare, resulting in substantial financial losses. Human infections caused by S. aureus can manifest as severe conditions, including food poisoning, pneumonia, osteomyelitis, endocarditis, and pyogenic infections affecting the skin and soft tissues. In animals, particularly among dairy ruminants, S. aureus is recognized as a primary etiological agent of intramammary infections, leading to severe economic consequences. In Egypt, S. aureus ranks as one of the most significant causes of both subclinical and clinical mastitis in small ruminants. The prevalence of S. aureus and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) varying across different geographical regions. This review compiles diverse information regarding the epidemiology, host susceptibility, virulence factors, antibiotic resistance, prevalence, and control measures for both S. aureus and MRSA infections in small ruminants.