Abstract

The dairy industry plays a pivotal role in global food security and rural livelihoods, particularly in countries like India, where smallholder farming dominates milk production. However, the industry faces a significant threat from Staphylococcus aureus, a versatile pathogen implicated in both animal disease and public health concerns. While traditionally associated with bovine mastitis, an inflammatory condition of the mammary gland, S. aureus has emerged as a zoonotic pathogen, capable of crossing species barriers and contributing to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) globally. Over recent decades, a noticeable rise in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections has been observed within healthcare settings and the dairy sector. It is a leading cause of both clinical and subclinical bovine mastitis which significantly impacts milk production and quality. Beyond the economic burden, MRSA has zoonotic potential, with risks of transmission to humans through direct contact or consumption of contaminated milk. The transition of this organism from hospitals to community environments and subsequently to livestock has exacerbated the situation. Now, with the rise of VRSA and a scarcity of treatment options, it poses a potential threat as one of the pandemics of the 21st century and underscores its relevance as a One Health challenge, demanding integrated surveillance and control strategies. This paper aims to give an overview of the assessment of zoonotic and antimicrobial-resistant S. aureus, particularly emphasizing the dairy industry in India and globally, to enhance awareness of the disease as a critical public health issue.

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