Staphylococcus aureus from Camel is Becoming Unleashed Drug-resistant Pathogen

Abstract

Mastitis poses a significant threat to camel milk production, compromising both quality and yield, particularly due to multidrug-resistant (MDR) Staphylococcus aureus. This study aimed to isolate and characterize S. aureus from mastitis-infected camels in the Cholistan and Suleiman ranges of Pakistan, evaluate their antibiotic susceptibility profiles, and develop potential treatment strategies. A total of 25% of isolates were MDR, with higher resistance observed in the Cholistan region. Susceptibility testing revealed alarming resistance patterns, particularly against oxacillin, ciprofloxacin, gentamicin, and trimethoprim. In vitro synergy assays indicated that combinations such as gentamicin + ampicillin and cefotaxime + ampicillin were the most effective. Field trials confirmed these findings, with the highest recovery rates observed within 3–5 days when using these combinations. These findings underscore the urgency of integrated mastitis management through targeted antibiotic use and vaccination strategies to preserve the therapeutic and commercial value of camel milk.