Investigating the high occurnce of mecC-MRSA in hedgeghogs. Investigating the high occurnce of mecC-MRSA in hedgeghogs

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the most frequent causes of hospital-acquired infections, but it also occurs in the society and livestock. MRSA is primarily linked to mecA, but in 2011 a new gene mecC was described. In Sweden, occurrence of MRSA is low and identifying it results in far-reaching complications for the affected party. It was therefore puzzling when 63% of hedgehogs in Sweden were shown to carry mecC-MRSA. The project aims to increase knowledge about occurrence of MRSA in hedgehogs and wildlife, and their potential impact on other sectors.