Research -ECCMID studies probe resistant pathogens in pets, pet food, and people

CIDRAP

Two studies by Portuguese scientists presented at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ECCMID) highlight concerns about the potential for transmission of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria between companion animals and humans.

In one study, researchers from the University of Porto found high levels of MDR enterococci in raw-frozen dog food sold in the European Union. In another study, a household survey and molecular screening by researchers from the University of Lisbon found the colistin-resistance gene MCR-1 in two healthy humans and one dog with a skin infection.

But in a third study, researchers in Germany reported that pet ownership does not appear to be a significant risk factor for colonization with MDR organisms (MDROs).

Leave a comment