Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli: two Multidrug-resistant Bacteria That we can Share With our Pets

Abstract

There are bacteria adapted to different environments and hosts, including humans and animals, establishing a symbiotic relationship; however, under special conditions, they can behave as opportunistic pathogens, causing infections that are considered zoonotic. Objective: To review current reports that describe the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli isolated from companion animals and humans. Materials and methods: We conducted a literature search in free access databases and electronic repositories with a publication period from 2015 to 2022. Results: We described the characteristics of S. aureus and E. coli that have been isolated from pets and humans around the world, as well as the prevalence and rates of resistance to different groups of antibiotics. Conclusions: The reports analyzed in this review suggest that close contact between humans and animals can favor bidirectional transmission of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria; Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate measures from the "One Health" point of view to promote a healthy coexistence with animals based on the responsibility of the owners, to ensure the common welfare of humans and their pets.