The transmission of antibiotic -resistant pathogens between humans and animals has long been known – mostly in connection with close physical contact. However, new research results from Vienna and Rwanda suggest that there is a risk of infection even without a direct closeness.
The focus is on the bacterium Staphylococcus aureuswhich often remains inconspicuous in healthy people, but can trigger diseases. The study found resistant bacterial strains in numerous dogs in Rwanda – although the animals are mostly not lived in close contact with people, but are kept outside.
Resistant germs discovered in guard dogs
In its analysis, the Vienna University of Veterinary Medicine found that 65 animals of around 500 dogs and cats examined Staphylococcus aureus were infected. Noteworthy: Many of the bacteria found showed resistance to common antibiotics such as penicillin, as reported by the newspaper “The Standard”.
According to the researchers, most of these germs originally come from humans. The fact that dogs are still infected with little human contact indicates alternative transmission paths. These findings attract attention in specialist circles because they show new potential for danger for humans and animals.
Health risks through germ transmission
The study makes it clear that pathogens can be transferred both by humans to animals and vice versa. The increasing resistance, which makes it difficult to treat infections, is particularly problematic. This focuses more on dogs as possible, previously underestimated transmitters.
In contrast to Europe, where dogs usually live closely with people, they are mainly used in Rwanda as guard dogs. This form of husbandry makes the origin of the germs difficult to understand and raises questions about further sources of infection. In addition, other animal species with resistant germs were identified in the study.
Farm animals are also affected
In addition to dogs, goats, sheep and cattle also showed resistant bacteria. In Rwanda, human-animal contact is particularly intensive-cattle are considered a status symbol and is partly held directly in the living rooms. This proximity favors the transfer of resistant pathogens.
Enterobacteria in particular that can trigger serious illnesses are increasingly showing resistance to common antibiotics. Experts rate this development as a serious danger to public health, especially in rural regions with close coexistence between humans and animals.
International measures required
The scientists involved are in favor of increased global cooperation. In order to effectively contain the spread of resistant bacteria, an integrative approach is needed that together looks at human and veterinary medicine. National and international surveillance initiatives are considered a central component.
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