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MRSA bugs linked to livestock are found in hospitals
Pig
Some MRSA bugs in UK hospitals can be traced back to a type of bacteria found in farm animals.
New study provides evidence that the livestock-associated strain could spread

Research by the University of Edinburgh has suggested that some MRSA bugs in UK hospitals can be traced back to a type of bacteria found in farm animals.

The MRSA strain Staphylococcus aureus CC398 - a type of drug resistant bacteria carried by some livestock - has also been found in patients, the research has revealed.

Distinct variants of the CC398 strain can be found in both people and animals and evolve from the same, original bacteria. However, the strain found in livestock can be transmitted to humans, and the study shows that this has happened on many occasions.

The research also provides new evidence that the livestock-associated CC398 strain could spread in hospitals.

CC398 from farm animals can be harder to treat because it is resistant to some common antibiotic drugs. The researchers say that the strain's enhanced drug resistance in livestock is likely to be the result of widespread use of antibiotics on farms.

Patients in nursing homes and hospitals are at increased risk of MRSA infection, but healthy people in the wider community can also be infected with some strains.

For the first time, the researchers unravelled the full genetic code of CC398 strains from the UK, and compared these with published genetic data on CC398 bugs from humans and livestock around the world.

The scientists say that the strain has entered the UK several times since the mid-1940s, though the original source of the bacteria remains unclear.

Lead researcher Dr Melissa Ward said: "Our findings emphasise the need for strict biosecurity practices in the food production industry, as well as continued surveillance and infection control of MRSA in hospitals. Responsible use of antibiotics in healthcare settings and agriculture is of utmost importance."

The study was published in the journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.