January 15, 2007

Belgium and Canadian researchers to study pig bacteria

Both Belgium and Canada have announced research into the Multi Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) bacteria in pigs.

The bacteria is harmless to healthy people but could be fatal to those who are frail, especially patients in hospitals.

Last year, the discovery of a connection between the bacteria and its presence in pigs caused Dutch hospitals to suspect pig producers were contaminated by the bacteria.

In Belgium, the bacteria is now being researched after a Flemish pig processor became afflicted with muscle problems after being infected by pigs.

The country's department of public health intends to assess the situation in the Belgian pig industry.

In Canada, researcher Scott Weese, of the veterinary faculty at Guelph University, Ontario, intends to undertake the research.