Cluster Analysis of Clinical, Food, and Handler Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Isolates Characterized by Pulse Field Gel Electrophoresis

Objectives: To identify and to characterize of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolates collected from food (n=43), handler (n=8), clinical samples (n=15). Methods: Genotyping was applied for the purposes epidemiological investigation source tracking these isolates. Pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) performed using restriction endonucleases SmaI. Findings: PFGE analysis showed that pulse types differed However, a similarity observed between handlers, suggesting an association two sources MRSA may be transmitted handlers foods. Novelty : genotyping useful, as first study its type in Iraq, investigating relatedness even contaminated sources. Keywords: Epidemiology; isolates; PFGE; SmaI