The project: MedVet-Staph

MedVet-Staph is a research network including veterinarians, biologists, human physicians, epidemiologists, bioinformaticians and experts for risk assessment and simulation. In summary, the interdisciplinary network is analyzing the mechanisms facilitating the spread of Staphylococcus aureus/MRSA within one species and across species barriers. The overriding aim of the network is to limit the dissemination of zoonotic Staphylococcus aureus/MRSA and make its research results available for the development of guidance for rational control strategies. Specifically, analysis of the virulence and persistence of Staphylococcus aureus/MRSA from animal reservoirs allow for estimates on the course of infection and the resulting necessity to implement therapeutical and preventive interventions. This makes it possible for all stakeholders (e.g. physicians, veterinarians, farmers, patients) to base their decisions (e.g. implementing special hygiene standards in healthcare facilities, sense of decolonization measures) on more evidence than this is done today.