New research into MRSA bacteria

The for humans highly infectious Methicillin-resistant Streptococcus Aureus bacteria - also known as the 'hospital bacteria' - was recently discovered to be present in about 40% of pigs too.

 

The research will not only include pigs, but also pig producers, their family members and production site colleagues.

 

The study will be carried out on 68 farms, organised by the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (VWA) and research agency RIVM. "We want to investigate into the relationship of working with pigs and the bacteria's prevalence," a spokesman announced. Results are expected in the middle of next year.

 

According to the VWA the pig bacteria is slightly different than the hospital bacteria, although they share the same harmful properties.

 

Related websites:

• Dutch Institute for Public Health and Environment