Can Pets and People Share “Superbugs”?
Is it possible for an animal to contract MRSA from
infectected humans?
Ramona
Tiffin Ohio
Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus, also known as MRSA, is a strain of bacteria that is resistant to multiple antibiotics. MRSA can spread from infected humans to pets. It also can spread from pets to humans.
MRSA has been in the news quite a bit lately because of its status as a superbug–a bacteria that causes infections that are exceptionally difficult to clear. Many people contract MRSA in hospitals. Many hospital workers are believed to carry the bacteria.
In people, MRSA may infect wounds or surgical sites. It can cause pneumonia, bladder infections, and, in severe cases, sepsis (infection of the blood) and death. Some people carry MRSA without showing any symptoms. These people may infect animals and other humans.
In animals, MRSA is most commonly known to cause difficult skin infections. It also has been documented in the noses of pets.
Many vets believe that most animal cases of MRSA result from exposure to infected humans in the house. Cases of animals and humans passing the bacteria to each other repeatedly have made news in the veterinary community.
MRSA infections in dogs and cats are thought to be quite rare. However, the dangerous nature of MRSA is a good reason to see a vet if your pet shows any unusual symptoms.
You have questions. 
Dr. Barchas, does MRSA present in animals as it presents in humans? Are there specific symptoms to look for that would look different than other skin issues, such as allergies?
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Actually I believe this has not been totally proven or dis-proven yet. There are studies going on to determine if it can indeed be passed between species. (We were just discussing this at work last week).
If your dog is suffering from recurrent skin problems I urge you to search for a dermatologist near you! http://www.acvd.org/