Biotyping Analysis of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Poultry from Wasit Markets, Iraq

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains are widely acknowledged as significant contributors to foodborne infections. In this study, a total of thirteen MRSA isolates were obtained from raw and frozen chicken meat sold in Wasit markets. The aim was to investigate the origin of these isolates. To achieve this, the isolates were subjected to the Biotyping system developed by Devriese, which involved several biochemical assays, including staphylokinase (K) synthesis, beta-hemolysis (β), bovine plasma coagulation (CPB), and growth in the presence of crystal violet (CV). Among the thirteen MRSA isolates, five distinct biotypes were identified. Two of these biotypes were host-specific, classified as avian (07) and human (03). Additionally, three non-host-specific biotypes, each consisting of three isolates, were identified with the following biochemical profiles: K-; β+; CPB-; CV: A (01), K-; β+; CPB-; CV: E (01), and K-; β-; CPB-; CV: C (01). These biotypes can be found in birds, cattle, and humans. The results suggest that inadequate management of animals may contribute to public health risks, as evidenced by the presence of these biotypes. Further research is necessary to explore additional epidemiological factors related to the MRSA isolates found in various food samples.