A recent study said some MRSA bugs in U.K. hospitals can be traced back to bacteria found in farm animals, according to an article on the Infection Control Today website.
A strain of drug-resistant bacteria carried by some livestock has also been found in patients, the study reported.
The study provides new evidence that the livestock-associated CC398 strain could spread in hospitals, the article said.
"Our findings emphasize the need for strict biosecurity practices in the food production industry, as well as continued surveillance and infection control of MRSA in hospitals. Responsible use of antibiotics in healthcare settings and agriculture is of utmost importance," lead researcher Dr. Melissa Ward said.
The study, published in the journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology, was carried out by the University of Edinburgh's Centre for Immunity, Infection and Evolution and The Roslin Institute, in collaboration with the Scottish MRSA Reference Laboratory.
A 'Superbug' Is on the Rise in Hospitals
The Next Generation of Security Tech in Healthcare Facilities
Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of St. Petersburg Opens
Why More Facilities are Adding Gender Neutral Restrooms
Massachusetts Hospital Cyberattack Reflects Growing Vulnerability in Healthcare Systems