Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Isolates, Obtained from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Campus, Capable of Transferring Methicillin-Resistance

Abstract

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcusaureus (MRSA) is an antibiotic-resistant strain of the bacterium Staphylococcusaureus that is responsible for many community and hospital-acquired infections worldwide. A survey of the UW-Eau Claire campus was conducted to indicate the relative presence of MRSA in academic and recreational buildings. Fifteen samples were identified as possible MRSA. Of these fifteen samples, one potential methicillin-resistant donor was selected. The results of this study provide evidence supporting horizontal transfer of the mecA gene between staphylococcal species.