Analysis of Staphylococcal Diversity in the Skin Microbiota of Healthy Riding Horses.

ABSTRACT: Background: In animals, staphylococci constitute a significant part of the normal skin microbiota and mucous membranes. There is limited information available on staphylococci isolated from healthy horses. These skin-associated bacteria can be easily transferred between animals and horse riders via direct contact. Patients undergoing hippotherapy (i.e., medical or therapeutic sessions with horses) are especially at risk of being colonized by horse skin-associated bacteria. However, it remains unclear whether equine skin is colonized by antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) opportunistic pathogens, which may be of concern to human health. Methods: We cultivate staphylococci from samples collected from healthy, non-vet-visiting horses who live on private farms in a rural area. In total

SUBMITTER: Wesolowska M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12561800 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature