Novel control measures
The main objective of the PILGRIM project is to provide novel control measures for the accelerated identification and control of resistant bacteria initially emerging from animals in order to prevent and eradicate community and nosocomial infections. The hypothesis of PILGRIM is that deeper understanding of factors affecting pathogen-host interaction of resistant bacteria at the molecular as well as the population level will lead to new and more effective control measures against nosocomial infection.
In order to progress beyond state of the art in the field of nosocomial infection control, PILGRIM proposes an integrated approach using an animal-adapted strain, i.e. MRSA ST398, which requires immediate intervention due to its rapid spread and impact on public health. PILGRIMs work will provide new control measures taking into account new evidence on factors impacting on transmission, colonisation, host range and virulence of resistant nosocomial strains.