VRL announces that we now have MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus)-PCR available for testing non-human primate samples:
MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus) PCR Order Code 8587
Specimen Requirements:
Nasal swabs placed in Amies Liquid Collection tube; Stuart’s Liquid Collection tube (such as BD BBL CultureSwab Transport Systems: Liquid Amies, Single Swab, cat# BD 220093; Copan Venturi Transystem Liquid Amies-Single Swab, cat# Copan 140C; Copan Venturi Transystem Liquid Stuart-Single Swab, cat# Copan 141C). Insert the nasal swab into nostril 1-2 cm from the edge of the nare and roll 5 times. Repeat using same swab in the other nostril. Return swab to its container immediately. Swabs from the groin, wounds, axilla, vagina, and throat are also acceptable. Culture positive colonies. Ship overnight with cold packs.
Staphylococcus aureus causes a variety of diseases, such as skin and soft tissue infections, endocarditis, and septicemia. The emergence of methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA) is an increasing threat since they are resistant to multiple antibiotics and limit antibiotic treatment options. MRSA is also known to colonize in non-humans primates. Soge OO, et.al reported a 17.6% MRSA positive rate from a group of monkeys (M. fascicularis, M. mulatta and M. nemestring, n=596) by the nasal culture method located (J Antimicro Chemother 2016; 71:2798-2803). Using PCR to detect MRSA directly from clinical specimens provides an alternative identification method with faster turn-around time compared to the traditional microbiology culture method.
If you have any questions, please contact either Dr. Chih-Ling Zao at Chih-Ling.Zao@vrl.net (210-615-7275 Ext 853) or Anthony Cooke at Anthony.Cooke@vrl.net (210-615-7275 Ext 850).