Phenotypic Antimicrobial Resistance and Resistance Genes in Salmonella isolates from poultry farms in Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria

Main Article Content

Emmanuel Enya
Mgbemena, C.E.
Prof. Ekundayo, E.O.

Abstract

The spread of Salmonella species resistant to multiple antibiotics along the poultry supply chain, has become a threat to global public health. This study investigated the antimicrobial resistance profiles and resistance genes of Salmonella spp. isolated from poultry farms in Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria. A total of 200 specimens consisting of 100 cloacal swabs and 100 faecal droppings were collected into sterile containers. The specimens were pre-enriched and inoculated into appropriate media. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing and extended spectrum Beta Lactamase (ESBL) production was assessed accordingly using standard methods. Detection of antibiotic resistance genes (aada1, aac3-iv, bla-TEM, bla-CMY, and qnrA) was done with Polymerase Chain Reaction. A total of 26 Salmonella isolates were obtained from the 200 specimens, representing an isolation rate of 13%. The rates of resistance to the antimicrobial drugs were as follows: Ofloxacin, 30.8% (8/26), Ciprofloxacin, 53.8% (14/26), Chloramphenicol, 69.2% (18/26), Ceftriaxone, 76.9% (20/26) and Augmentin and Cefuroxime, 100%, respectively. Nine (34.6%) isolates were extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) producers. Multiple antimicrobial resistance index values ranged from 0.2 to 0.6 with 21(80.8%) exhibiting resistance to >3 antimicrobial agents tested.  Out of the 9 most resistant isolates screened for antibiotic resistance genes, bla-TEM was detected in 2(22.2%) isolates and aac-iv was detected in 1(11.1%). None of the isolates was positive for qnrA, bla-CMY and aada1. This study suggests the need for surveillance of the emerging antimicrobial resistance in Salmonella species in poultry farms in Umuahia and to control the use of antibiotics in poultry production.

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Enya, E., Mgbemena, C., & Ekundayo, E. (2026). Phenotypic Antimicrobial Resistance and Resistance Genes in Salmonella isolates from poultry farms in Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria. Journal of Biological Research and Biotechnology, 24(2), 575-580. https://doi.org/10.4314/
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