Scientists in the UK have discovered a new strain of MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) in cows' milk while studying the udder infection, mastitis in dairy herds. The scientists have claimed that this is the first type when any type of MRSA has been found on British farms. Early tests have revealed that the new strain has spread to nearly 3% of dairy farms in the UK.

Dr. Mark Holmes, a Veterinary Scientist who led the study at the University of Cambridge, said that milk from infected cows is safe for drinking because the bug and other bacteria was killed by pasteurization. More than 99% of milk consumed in the UK is pasteurized.

This new strain can spread from cattle to humans and can cause serious blood infections in some cases. Health officials of the UK have urged the people not to panic because there is very low risk to them as the standard tests in UK hospitals can detect MRSA.

Helen Browning, Director of the Organic Food Trade Group the Soil Association, said the new finding has highlighted the need to minimize the use of antibiotic on farms.