Changes in the human nasal microbiome following exposure to pig farm environment: a prospective cohort study

Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, we detected a temporary shift of the nasal microbiome of MRSA-negative human visitors after a one-hour exposure in a pig farm. On the other hand, long time occupationally exposed pig farm workers were found to have a wide range of microbial communities. Analysis of microbial community clustering revealed five community state types (CSTs) among the samples of short time visitors and pig farm workers. Two of the CSTs were found only in pigs, short time visitors at farm, and in some farm workers. Remaining three CSTs were found in visitors' at home and in farmers which shows the microbial transition in short time visitors, and diverse microbial communities in farm workers. There were neither phylogenetic nor statistical differences in the microbial diversity of farm workers at different time points during an entire week. The observed differences in the dynamics of the nasal microbiomes between farm workers and short-time visitors are important factors in understanding the overall risk of transmission of the microbiome, including LA-MRSA, from pig farms to household members and the general population.