Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in dairy cattle: current situation and challenges in milk production
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19391230Keywords:
dairy cattle, methicillin resistant, milk quality, Staphylococcus aureusAbstract
Introduction: methicillin resistance in Staphylococcus aureus has become a relevant issue in dairy cattle production due to its association with clinical and subclinical mastitis, its persistence within production systems, and its impact on milk quality and economic losses. Objective: to provide information on the current epidemiological situation of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in dairy cattle, by describing its resistance mechanisms and evaluating its impact on productivity, the economy, and milk quality, as well as reviewing the main control, prevention, and surveillance strategies. Method: an exhaustive search of recent scientific publications was conducted, focusing on epidemiological aspects, resistance mechanisms, productive impact, and control strategies. Results: the prevalence of methicillin‑resistant Staphylococcus aureus in dairy systems varies according to region and production conditions. The predominance of livestock‑associated lineages, together with resistance genes and the ability to form biofilms, promotes chronic and subclinical infections, which increase antibiotic use and generates productive impacts. Conclusion: the presence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in dairy cattle represents a sanitary and productive risk that requires strategies centered on strengthening biosecurity measures, promoting responsible antimicrobial use, and maintaining continuous epidemiological surveillance.
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