The molecular classification of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) clones in the livestock settings air, and their potential bioaerosol-based transmission risk to the ambient environment: A challenge to One-health approach

Abstract

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a human and animal-associated opportunistic pathogen. The bioaerosols from livestock units have been identified to spread MRSA from indoor to outdoor ambient environments and represent a significant risk to public health. Different bioaerosol sampling methods (filtration, impingement, impaction, cyclone, condensation, electrostatic precipitation etc.) have been discussed based on their merits. In this report, we conducted a literature survey approach to understand the lineages of MRSA clones in various livestock air via molecular typing classification, as well as the function of bioaerosol transmission which could impose infection risk in other clean settings. Our analysis found that globally the spa types t011, t002, t034, t127, and t899 are widespread genotype lineages in different livestock's farm air. It is noteworthy that the MRSA clones ST398 and ST9 are most commonly found in livestock settings and carry various types of staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec) elements. In addition, the aerosolization process in livestock units helps to increase the load of MRSA colony in ambient air, which could transmit to the downwind direction of the livestock farms. Ultimately, in the molecular classification of prevalent MRSA clones in livestock settings, the air dynamics are essential in assessing the potential risk of bioaerosol transmission towards outdoor ambient environments. A basic hygiene-driven One-Health approach is critical in mitigating the risks associated with MRSA transmission from livestock settings and promoting public health. Furthermore, to avoid outbreaks, continuous surveillance and effective infection control measures are necessary to prevent the spread of MRSA and other antibiotic-resistant bacteria in both animal and human populations.