Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in pork production shower facilities.

As methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has been found in pigs, we sought to determine if MRSA is present in pork production shower facilities. In two production systems tested, 3% and 26% of shower samples were positive for MRSA. spa types identified included t034, t189, t753, and t1746.

The Take Care program and responsible use of antibiotics.

While the contribution of antimicrobial use in pork production to resistant bacteria in human health is uncertain, pork producers have the responsibility to deliver safe and wholesome pork to consumers. The development of a comprehensive producer education and awareness program focused on the responsible use of antimicrobials in pork production is described. The Take Care - Use Antibiotics Responsibly program is based on principles and guidelines that provide the producer and veterinarian the basis for antibiotic use decision-making.

Trichinae certification in the United States pork industry.

Control of Trichinella infection in U.S. pork has traditionally been accomplished by inspection of individual carcasses at slaughter or by post-slaughter processing to inactivate parasites.

An outbreak of Pontiac fever with respiratory distress among workers performing high-pressure cleaning at a sugar-beet processing plant.

Background: In August 2000, the Minnesota Department of Health was notified of and investigated an outbreak of febrile respiratory illness among workers at a sugar-beet processing plant.

Methods: A case was defined as fever and respiratory symptoms occurring in a worker at the sugar-beet plant on or after 31 July 2000. Case patients were interviewed, medical and work records were reviewed, and clinical samples were obtained.