Characterization of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing Escherichia Coli From Domestic Free-Range Poultry In Agogo, Ghana

Abstract Background: Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBLs) producing bacteria in poultry meat has been suggested as one of the sources of resistant genes, that can lead to difficult-to treat infections in humans. This study aims at determining the frequency of ESBL-producing E. coli, the genetic characterization and antibiotic profile among domestic free-range poultry in Agogo, Ghana. Faecal samples were collected from domestic free-roaming chicken and cultured on ESBL screening agar. Strain identification and antibiotic susceptibility were performed using the VITEK 2 compact system. ESBL-producing E. coli were confirmed using the Double Disk Synergy (DDS) test. Molecular detection and further sequencing of bla TEM, bla SHV and bla CTX-M genes was performed using standardized methods. Results: 56.2% (n/N=81/144) of collected faecal samples were positive for ESBL-producing E. coli . All (n/N=81/81) strains were resistant to ampicillin, ceftazidime, cefpodoxime, cefotaxime and cefuroxime. High rates of resistance were also observed for tetracycline (93.8%, n/N=76/81) and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (66.67; n/N=54/81). Resistance to Carbapenems was not found. The majority of ESBL producing E. coli carried bla CTX-M genes with bla CTX-M-15, 95.1% (n/N=77/81) being the dominant genotype . Conclusions: We report high ESBL rates, which is a potential infection source of animals as well as humans, and that a control of antibiotic overuse and animal hygiene/sanitation measures are important from a one health perspective .