Genomics to track transmission of Livestock-Associated Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus from UK pigs in abattoirs during slaughter

Livestock-Associated Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA) is a zoonotic pathogen, particularly posing an occupational hazard to those working closely with colonised livestock such as pigs, whether on farm or at slaughter. In this study we performed whole genome sequencing on 85 LA-MRSA isolated from ear and nasal swabs from batches of pigs from farms across the UK sent to six abattoirs in England. The aim was to determine the level of cross-contamination and clonal spread that occurs in abattoirs. Genomic diversity of the LA-MRSA isolates to those previously reported in the UK and globally, was also examined to establish transmission more widely in the UK