MRSA in dogs, horses and cats

6.3.2015

Question for written answer E-003690-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
Jørn Dohrmann (ECR)

In Denmark, one third of pigs are affected by MRSA, but other animals can also be infected by the methicillin-resistant staphylococcus. MRSA is thus not something found only in humans and pigs.

German experts believe that a number of other animals should also be investigated; these include dogs, horses, sheep, cows and cats.

Children and young people often go to riding schools. Does the Commission have an overview of how many horses in the individual EU countries have MRSA for example? Dogs in private homes must also be presumed to present an increased risk for children and young people.

What will the Commission do to investigate and clarify how the infection is transmitted between animals and people?

Is the Commission clear about the dangers of MRSA?