The impact of stray animal populations on public health in Naples, Italy: A preliminary study on antimicrobial resistance on the road. - Related Documents




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265901.0000The impact of stray animal populations on public health in Naples, Italy: A preliminary study on antimicrobial resistance on the road. The rise of antimicrobial resistance poses a significant public health challenge, with an increasing number of organisms developing resistance to many antimicrobial agents used to treat infections in humans and animals. This study investigated the role of stray dogs and cats as sentinel animals in the urban environment. Therefore, the sampling of healthy skin was performed to isolate bacterial species present and assess their antimicrobial resistance profile. A total of 690 swabs were collected, comprising 351 cutaneous swabs from dogs and 339 from cats. A total of 770 strains were identified, including 381 Gram-positive bacteria (94 %) and 19 Gram-negative bacteria (6 %) from dogs, and 355 Gram-positive bacteria (97 %) and 11 Gram-negative bacteria (3 %) from cats. In dogs, Staphylococcus pseudintermedius was the most frequently isolated Gram-positive bacterium, with 53 strains identified. Meanwhile, in cats, coagulase-negative staphylococci were the most common, with Staphylococcus felis being the predominant species, represented by 50 strains. Among the isolated Gram-negative bacteria in both animal species, E. coli was predominant. Among the recovered Gram-positive bacteria, multidrug resistance was observed in 105 out of 129 (81.4 %) canine isolates and 87 out of 143 (60.8 %) feline isolates. Additionally, phenotypic resistance to penicillin, oxacillin, and cefoxitin in 42 out of 53 (79.2 %) S. pseudintermedius strains and 8 out of 50 (16.0 %) S. felis strains was identified, suggesting the presence of the methicillin resistance gene. The above findings underscore the need for stricter monitoring of antibiotic resistance specifically in stray dogs and cats which can act as reservoirs for resistant bacteria.202540311406
266010.9998Antimicrobial resistance and virulence characteristics in 3 collections of staphylococci from bovine milk samples. Mastitis is a prevalent disease in dairy cattle, and staphylococci are among the most common causative pathogens. Staphylococci can express resistance to a range of antimicrobials, of which methicillin resistance is of particular public health concern. Additionally, Staphylococcus aureus carries a variety of virulence factors, although less is understood about the virulence of non-aureus staphylococci (NAS). The aim of our study was to identify and characterize 3 collections of staphylococcal isolates from bovine milk samples regarding antimicrobial resistance, with emphasis on methicillin resistance, and their carriage of virulence genes typically displayed by Staph. aureus. A total of 272 staphylococcal isolates collected in Norway and Belgium in 2016 were included, distributed as follows: group 1, Norway, 100 isolates; group 2, Flanders, Belgium, 64 isolates; group 3, Wallonia, Belgium, 108 isolates. Species identification was performed by use of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Phenotypic resistance was determined via disk diffusion, and PCR was used for detection of methicillin resistance genes, mecA and mecC, and virulence genes. Antimicrobial resistance was common in Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus haemolyticus from all different groups, with resistance to trimethoprim-sulfonamide frequently occurring in Staph. epidermidis and Staph. haemolyticus as well as in Staph. aureus. Resistance to penicillin was most frequently observed in group 1. Ten Belgian isolates (1 from group 2, 9 from group 3) carried the methicillin resistance determinant mecA: 5 Staph. aureus from 2 different farms and 5 NAS from 3 different farms. Almost all Staph. aureus isolates were positive for at least 3 of the screened virulence genes, whereas, in total, only 8 NAS isolates harbored any of the same genes. Our study contributes to the continuous need for knowledge regarding staphylococci from food-producing animals as a basis for better understanding of occurrence of resistance and virulence traits in these bacteria.202133934873
85320.9998Nosocomial Pneumonia in Georgia: A Focus on Gram-Positive Bacteria and Antimicrobial Resistance. Nosocomial pneumonia represents a significant clinical challenge worldwide, and in Georgia, the burden of this healthcare-associated infection is a growing concern. This study investigates the role of gram-positive bacteria in nosocomial pneumonia cases, focusing on their prevalence, antimicrobial resistance patterns, and associated risk factors. A retrospective analysis of 484 clinical samples collected from 397 patients between May 2022 and September 2024 highlights the distribution of pathogens, with a particular emphasis on Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae. Among gram-positive pathogens, Staphylococcus aureus was the most prevalent, accounting for 103 cases (21.3%), followed by Streptococcus pneumoniae with 45 cases (9.3%). The study identifies alarming rates of antimicrobial resistance among gram-positive pathogens. Staphylococcus aureus isolates demonstrated universal penicillinase production (103/103, 100%) and high levels of mecA-mediated methicillin resistance (89/103, 86.4%) and erm-mediated macrolide resistance (74/103, 71.8%). Additionally, notable resistance was observed to tetracycline (93/103, 90.3%), aminoglycosides (31/103, 30.1%), and fluoroquinolones (41/103, 39.8%). Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates exhibited universal penicillinase production (45/45, 100%), with complete beta-lactam resistance found in 42 isolates (42/45, 93.3%), mediated through mutations in the pbp1a, pbp2x, and pbp2b genes. Furthermore, erm(B)-mediated macrolide resistance was observed in 37 isolates (37/45, 82.2%), tetM-mediated tetracycline resistance in 37 isolates (37/45, 82.2%), and fluoroquinolone resistance in 13 isolates (13/45, 28.9%). One isolate of each pathogen demonstrated vancomycin resistance, underscoring the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains. The study underscores the need for stringent infection control measures and rational antibiotic stewardship to mitigate the impact of resistant gram-positive pathogens in Georgian healthcare settings. The findings also stress the importance of continuous surveillance to monitor resistance trends and guide empirical therapy. By exploring the resistance mechanisms and prevalence of gram-positive bacteria in nosocomial pneumonia, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the local epidemiology and highlights actionable insights for improving patient outcomes.202539974234
266230.9997Nasal Carriage of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Sciuri Group by Residents of an Urban Informal Settlement in Kenya. BACKGROUND: The Staphylococcus sciuri group constitutes animal-associated bacteria but can comprise up to 4% of coagulase-negative staphylococci isolated from human clinical samples. They are reservoirs of resistance genes that are transferable to Staphylococcus aureus but their distribution in communities in sub-Saharan Africa is unknown despite the clinical importance of methicillin-resistant S. aureus. OBJECTIVES: We characterised methicillin-resistant S. sciuri group isolates from nasal swabs of presumably healthy people living in an informal settlement in Nairobi to identify their resistance patterns, and carriage of two methicillin resistance genes. METHOD: Presumptive methicillin-resistant S. sciuri group were isolated from HardyCHROM™ methicillin-resistant S. aureus media. Isolate identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing were done using the VITEK(®)2 Compact. DNA was extracted using the ISOLATE II genomic kit and polymerase chain reaction used to detect mecA and mecC genes. Results: Of 37 presumptive isolates, 43% (16/37) were methicillin-resistant including - S. sciuri (50%; 8/16), S. lentus (31%; 5/16) and S. vitulinus (19%; 3/16). All isolates were susceptible to ciprofloxacin, gentamycin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, nitrofurantoin and tigecycline. Resistance was observed to clindamycin (63%), tetracycline (56%), erythromycin (56%), sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (25%), daptomycin (19%), rifampicin (13%), doxycycline, linezolid, and vancomycin (each 6%). Most isolates (88%; 14/16) were resistant to at least 2 antibiotic combinations, including methicillin. The mecA and mecC genes were identified in 75% and 50% of isolates, respectively. CONCLUSION: Colonizing S. sciuri group bacteria can carry resistance to methicillin and other therapeutic antibiotics. This highlights their potential to facilitate antimicrobial resistance transmission in community and hospital settings. Surveillance for emerging multidrug resistant strains should be considered in high transmission settings where human-animal interactions are prevalent. Our study scope precluded identifying other molecular determinants for all the observed resistance phenotypes. Larger studies that address the prevalence and risk factors for colonization with S. sciuri group and adopt a one health approach can complement the surveillance efforts.202337529492
163440.9997Sick pets as potential reservoirs of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in Singapore. An analysis of 186 diagnostic reports collected from a veterinary clinic in Singapore between 2014 to 2016 showed that sick companion animals can carry bacteria that are of significance to human health. Among the 186 specimens submitted, 82 showed polymicrobial growth (45%, 82/186) and in total, 359 bacteria were isolated. Of the 359 bacteria reported, 45% (162/359) were multi-drug resistant and 18% (66/359) were extended-spectrum-beta-lactamase species. Resistance to broad-spectrum antibiotics were also observed among individual species. Namely, methicillin-resistance among Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (63%, 32/51) and Staphylococcus aureus (50%, 4/8); fluoroquinolone-resistance among Escherichia coli (40%, 17/42) and carbapenem-resistance among Klebsiella pneumoniae (7%, 2/30) were noted. Our analysis suggests that sick pets may contribute to the pool of clinically relevant antibiotic-resistant bacteria and play a role in the spread of antibiotic resistance in Singapore. A more extensive study to better understand the extent of distribution and the factors affecting transmission of antibiotic-resistant bacteria to and from pets is necessary.201830186596
266350.9997Antimicrobial susceptibility profile of oral and rectal microbiota of non-human primate species in Ghana: A threat to human health. BACKGROUND: The potential for the transfer of zoonotic diseases, including bacteria between human and non-human primates (NHPs), is expected to rise. It is posited that NHPs that live in close contact with humans serve as sentinels and reservoirs for antibiotic-resistant bacteria. OBJECTIVES: The objective was to characterize the oral and rectal bacteria in Ghanaian NHPs and profile the antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolated bacteria. METHODS: Oral and rectal swabs were obtained from 40 immobilized wild and captive NHPs from 7 locations in Ghana. Standard bacteriological procedures were used in the isolation, preliminary identification, automated characterization and antimicrobial susceptibility test (AST) of bacteria using the Vitek 2 Compact system. RESULTS: Gram-negative bacteria dominated isolates from the rectal swabs (n = 76, 85.4%), whereas Gram-positive bacteria were more common in the oral swabs (n = 41, 82%). Staphylococcus haemolyticus (n = 7, 14%) was the most occurring bacterial species isolated from the oral swabs, whereas Escherichia coli (n = 32, 36%) dominated bacteria isolates from rectal swabs. Enterobacter spp. had the highest (39%) average phenotypic resistance to antimicrobials that were used for AST, whereas a trend of high resistance was recorded against norfloxacin, Ampicillin and Tetracycline in Gram-negative bacteria. Similarly, among Gram-positive bacteria, Staphylococcus spp. had the highest (25%) average phenotypic resistance to antimicrobials used for AST, and a trend of high resistance was recorded against penicillin G and oxacillin. CONCLUSIONS: This study has established that apparently healthy NHPs that live in anthropized environments in Ghana harbour zoonotic and antimicrobial resistant bacteria.202337733757
267860.9997Phenotypic and molecular characterization of multidrug-resistant mastitis causing pathogens in dairy cattle. This study focused on isolating antibiotic-resistant mastitogens from cow milk; 57% of 100 samples tested positive by California mastitis test. Bacterial species from each milk sample were isolated and identified using Vitek® 2 automated system. Out of the 167 bacterial strains isolated, 14 were multidrug-resistant (MDR) and were further identified as belonging to Staphylococcus spp. Enterobacter spp. Morganella spp. and Elizabethkingia spp. Staphylococcus strains showed the highest resistance by phenotypic and genotypic screening, with 8% of mastitis isolates identified as MDR. These MDR bacterial strains were also found to harbour antibiotic resistance genes such as mecA (21%), blaZ (43%), gyrA (50%), and gyrB (59%). The tissue culture plate assay showed 11 multidrug-resistant bacteria as strong biofilm formers and the biofilm-related atlE gene was analysed from Staphylococcal strain M33.1. The findings highlight a public health risk from resistant dairy bacteria, emphasizing prophylactic measures and responsible antimicrobial use to prevent zoonotic transmission.202541115007
268070.9997Antimicrobial Resistance, Biofilm Formation, and Virulence Genes in Enterococcus Species from Small Backyard Chicken Flocks. Backyard birds are small flocks that are more common in developing countries. They are used for poultry meat and egg production. However, they are also implicated in the maintenance and transmission of several zoonotic diseases, including multidrug-resistant bacteria. Enterococci are one of the most common zoonotic bacteria. They colonize numerous body sites and cause a wide range of serious nosocomial infections in humans. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to investigate the diversity in Enterococcus spp. in healthy birds and to determine the occurrence of multidrug resistance (MDR), multi-locus sequence types, and virulence genes and biofilm formation. From March 2019 to December 2020, cloacal swabs were collected from 15 healthy backyard broiler flocks. A total of 90 enterococci strains were recovered and classified according to the 16S rRNA sequence into Enterococcus faecalis (50%); Enterococcus faecium (33.33%), Enterococcus hirae (13.33%), and Enterococcus avium (3.33%). The isolates exhibited high resistance to tetracycline (55.6%), erythromycin (31.1%), and ampicillin (30%). However, all of the isolates were susceptible to linezolid. Multidrug resistance (MDR) was identified in 30 (33.3%) isolates. The enterococci AMR-associated genes ermB, ermA, tetM, tetL, vanA, cat, and pbp5 were identified in 24 (26.6%), 11 (12.2%), 39 (43.3%), 34 (37.7%), 1 (1.1%), 4 (4.4%), and 23 (25.5%) isolates, respectively. Of the 90 enterococci, 21 (23.3%), 27 (30%), and 36 (40%) isolates showed the presence of cylA, gelE, and agg virulence-associated genes, respectively. Seventy-three (81.1%) isolates exhibited biofilm formation. A statistically significant correlation was obtained for biofilm formation versus the MAR index and MDR. Multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) identified eleven and eight different STs for E. faecalis and E. faecium, respectively. Seven different rep-family plasmid genes (rep1-2, rep3, rep5-6, rep9, and rep11) were detected in the MDR enterococci. Two-thirds (20/30; 66.6%) of the enterococci were positive for one or two rep-families. In conclusion, the results show that healthy backyard chickens could act as a reservoir for MDR and virulent Enterococcus spp. Thus, an effective antimicrobial stewardship program and further studies using a One Health approach are required to investigate the role of backyard chickens as vectors for AMR transmission to humans.202235326843
240080.9997Antimicrobial susceptibility and distribution of antimicrobial-resistance genes among Enterococcus and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus isolates recovered from poultry litter. Data on the prevalence of antimicrobial resistant enterococci and staphylococci from the poultry production environment are sparse in the United States. This information is needed for science-based risk assessments of antimicrobial use in animal husbandry and potential public-health consequences. In this study, we assessed the susceptibility of staphylococci and enterococci isolated from poultry litter, recovered from 24 farms across Georgia, to several antimicrobials of veterinary and human health importance. Among the 90 Enterococcus isolates recovered, E. hirae (46%) was the most frequently encountered species, followed by E. faecium (27%), E. gallinarum (12%), and E. faecalis (10%). Antimicrobial resistance was most often observed to tetracycline (96%), followed by clindamycin (90%), quinupristin-dalfopristin (62%), penicillin (53%), erythromycin (50%), nitrofurantoin (49%), and clarithromycin (48%). Among the 110 staphylococci isolates recovered, only coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) were identified with the predominant Staphylococcus species being S. sciuri (38%), S. lentus (21%), S. xylosus (14%) and S. simulans (12%). Resistance was less-frequently observed among the Staphylococcus isolates for the majority of antimicrobials tested, as compared with Enterococcus isolates, and was primarily limited to clarithromycin (71%), erythromycin (71%), clindamycin (48%), and tetracycline (38%). Multidrug resistance (MDR) phenotypes were prevalent in both Enterococcus and Staphylococcus; however, Enterococcus exhibited a statistically significant difference in the median number of antimicrobials to which resistance was observed (median = 5.0) compared with Staphylococcus species (median = 3.0). Because resistance to several of these antimicrobials in gram-positive bacteria may be attributed to the shuttling of common drug-resistance genes, we also determined which common antimicrobial-resistance genes were present in both enterococci and staphylococci. The antimicrobial resistance genes vat(D) and erm(B) were present in enterococci, vgaB in staphylococci, and mobile genetic elements Tn916 and pheromone-inducible plasmids were only identified in enterococci. These data suggest that the disparity in antimicrobial-resistance phenotypes and genotypes between enterococci and staphylococci isolated from the same environment is, in part, because of barriers preventing exchange of mobile DNA elements.200718251398
239790.9997Antimicrobial resistance in Enterococcus strains isolated from healthy domestic dogs. Enterococci are opportunistic bacteria that cause severe infections in animals and humans, capable to acquire, express, and transfer antimicrobial resistance. Susceptibility to 21 antimicrobial agents was tested by the disk diffusion method in 222 Enterococcus spp. strains isolated from the fecal samples of 287 healthy domestic dogs. Vancomycin and ampicillin minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and high-level aminoglycoside resistance (HLAR) tests were also performed. Isolates showed resistance mainly to streptomycin (88.7%), neomycin (80.6%), and tetracycline (69.4%). Forty-two (18.9%) isolates showed an HLAR to streptomycin and 15 (6.7%) to gentamicin. Vancomycin and ampicillin MIC values showed 1 and 18 resistant strains, respectively. One hundred and thirty-six (61.2%) strains were classified as multidrug resistant and six (2.7%) strains as possibly extensively drug-resistant bacteria. Enterococcus faecium and Enterococcus faecalis were the most prevalent antimicrobial resistant species. Companion animals, which often live in close contact with their owners and share the same environment, represent a serious source of enterococci resistant to several antibiotics; for this reason, they may be a hazard for public health by providing a conduit for the entrance of resistance genes into the community.201727976593
2396100.9997Environmental contamination by dog’s faeces: a public health problem? The risk to public health from the large number of dog stools present on streets of urban areas is cause for concern. Dog faeces may be a serious hazard because they may contain microorganisms that are both pathogenic to humans and resistant to several classes of antibiotics. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential for zoonotic infections and for the presence of antibiotic resistant bacteria in canine faeces which contaminates the urban environment. A total of 418 canine faecal samples were collected from streets in seven areas of Bari, Southern Italy. We have isolated multi-drug resistant Enterococci and meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus from these dog faecal samples. The presence of the resistant bacteria in an urban environment may represent a public health hazard which requires control measures by competent authorities. No Salmonella, Yersinia or Campylobacter species were isolated. Giardia cysts were detected in 1.9% of the samples. The predominant Enterococcus species were E. faecium (61.6%), E. gallinarum (23.3%) and E. casseliflavus (5.5%). Other species, including E. faecalis were also isolated. These strains were resistant to clindamycin (86.3%), tetracycline (65.7%), erythromycin (60.27%) and ampicillin (47.9%). High-level aminoglycoside resistance (HLAR) was found in 65.7% of enterococci. Resistance to three or more antibiotics and six or more antibiotics were observed in 67.12% and 38.4% of Enterococcus spp., respectively. Resistance to vancomycin and teicoplanin was not detected in any of the Enterococcus spp. isolated. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was isolated in 0.7% of the faecal samples. Canine faeces left on the streets may represent a risk factor for transmission of microorganisms and a reservoir of multidrug- resistant bacteria thus contributing to the spread of resistance genes into an urban area.201223263659
1956110.9997Wounds of Companion Animals as a Habitat of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria That Are Potentially Harmful to Humans-Phenotypic, Proteomic and Molecular Detection. Skin wounds and their infections by antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) are very common in small animals, posing the risk of acquiring ARB by pet owners or antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) transfer to the owners' microbiota. The aim of this study was to identify the most common pathogens infecting wounds of companion animals, assess their antibiotic resistance, and determine the ARGs using culture-based, molecular, and proteomic methods. A total of 136 bacterial strains were isolated from wound swabs. Their species was identified using chromogenic media, followed by MALDI-TOF spectrometry. Antibiotic resistance was tested using disc diffusion, and twelve ARGs were detected using PCRs. The dominant species included Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (9.56%), E. coli, and E. faecalis (both n = 11, 8.09%). Enterobacterales were mostly resistant to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (68.3% strains), all Pseudomonas were resistant to ceftazidime, piperacillin/tazobactam, imipenem, and tylosin, Acinetobacter were mostly resistant to tylosin (55.5%), all Enterococcus were resistant to imipenem, and 39.2% of Staphylococci were resistant to clindamycin. Among ARGs, strA (streptomycin resistance), sul3 (sulfonamide resistance), and blaTEM, an extended-spectrum beta-lactamase determinant, were the most frequent. The risk of ARB and ARG transfer between animals and humans causes the need to search for new antimicrobial therapies in future veterinary medicine.202438542095
2657120.9997Investigating the Prevalence of Enterotoxin and Antibiotic Resistance in Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Isolated From Meat and Edible Viscera of Broiler Chickens. BACKGROUND: The responsible for staph infection is methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) which has a long and difficult treatment process due to resistance to this type of antibiotic. This study is designed to investigate the distribution and frequency of antibiotic-resistant genes and MRSA enterotoxins isolated from the meat and edible viscera of broiler chickens, which are responsible for pathogenicity in humans. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 523 meat and edible viscera of broiler chicken collected from farms in Shahrekord, Iran. The antibiogram test of 142 MRSA isolates was performed by Kirby-Bauer diffusion disc. Sensitivity or resistance of MRSA was tested on 13 different antibiotics. DNA extracted from MRSA was screened by PCR technique for the presence of antibiotic-resistant and enterotoxin genes. RESULTS: Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) isolated with frequency of 51.05% (267 of 523). The presence of mecA gene in S. aureus was examined to detect the MRSA. The most antibiotic-resistance responsible genes and the pathogenic enterotoxin genes were identified. MRSA was identified by positive amplification of mecA in 53.18% (142 of 267) of S. aureus isolates. S. aureus antimicrobial resistance was most frequently noted against tetracycline (94.37%), ampicillin (88.73%) and penicillin (71.83%). Out of 51 examined isolates, 47 isolates exhibited the sea (92.15%), and 7 isolates exhibited the sej (13.72%). CONCLUSION: The results indicated high prevalence of MRSA in broilers, which is very worrying issue. In addition, in the present study, it was observed that due to the increase in the use of antibiotics in poultry farming, bacteria resistant to methicillin and other antibiotics have a high prevalence. Now, with the knowledge that the consumption of broiler chicken is very high all over the world and with the increasing trend of antibiotic consumption, this issue has become a concern at the global health level. The presence of antibiotic-resistance and enterotoxigenic genes in MRSA bacteria is a critical threat to human nutrition, making consuming contaminated meat and edible viscera of broiler chickens unsafe.202540613255
1955130.9997Phenotypic & genotypic study of antimicrobial profile of bacteria isolates from environmental samples. BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES: The resistance to antibiotics in pathogenic bacteria has increased at an alarming rate in recent years due to the indiscriminate use of antibiotics in healthcare, livestock and aquaculture. In this context, it is necessary to monitor the antibiotic resistance patterns of bacteria isolated from the environmental samples. This study was conducted to determine the phenotypic and genotypic profile of antimicrobial resistance in Gram-negative bacteria isolated from environmental samples. METHODS: Two hundred and fifty samples were collected from different sources, viz. fish and fishery products (99), livestock wastes (81) and aquaculture systems (70), in and around Mangaluru, India. Isolation, identification and antimicrobial profiling were carried out as per standard protocols. The isolates were screened for the presence of resistance genes using PCR. RESULTS: A total of 519 Gram-negative bacteria comprising Escherichia coli (116), Salmonella spp. (14), Vibrio spp. (258), Pseudomonas spp. (56), Citrobacter spp. (26) and Proteus spp. (49) were isolated and characterized from 250 samples obtained from different sources. A total of 12 antibiotics were checked for their effectiveness against the isolates. While 31.6 per cent of the isolates were sensitive to all the antibiotics used, 68.4 per cent of the isolates showed resistance to at least one of the antibiotics used. One-third of the isolates showed multidrug resistance. Maximum resistance was observed for ampicillin (43.4%), followed by nitrofurantoin (20.8%). Least resistance was seen for carbapenems and chloramphenicol. PCR profiling of the resistant isolates confirmed the presence of resistance genes corresponding to their antibiotic profile. INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS: This study results showed high rate of occurrence of antimicrobial resistance and their determinants in Gram-negative bacteria isolated from different environmental sources.201931219088
2677140.9997Detection of Staphylococcus Isolates and Their Antimicrobial Resistance Profiles and Virulence Genes from Subclinical Mastitis Cattle Milk Using MALDI-TOF MS, PCR and Sequencing in Free State Province, South Africa. Staphylococcus species are amongst the bacteria that cause bovine mastitis worldwide, whereby they produce a wide range of protein toxins, virulence factors, and antimicrobial-resistant properties which are enhancing the pathogenicity of these organisms. This study aimed to detect Staphylococcus spp. from the milk of cattle with subclinical mastitis using MALDI-TOF MS and 16S rRNA PCR as well as screening for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and virulence genes. Our results uncovered that from 166 sampled cows, only 33.13% had subclinical mastitis after initial screening, while the quarter-level prevalence was 54%. Of the 50 cultured bacterial isolates, MALDI-TOF MS and 16S rRNA PCR assay and sequencing identified S. aureus as the dominant bacteria by 76%. Furthermore, an AMR susceptibility test showed that 86% of the isolates were resistant to penicillin, followed by ciprofloxacin (80%) and cefoxitin (52%). Antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes showed that 16% of the isolates carried the mecA gene, while 52% of the isolates carried the Lg G-binding region gene, followed by coa (42%), spa (40%), hla (38%), and hlb (38%), whereas sea and bap genes were detected in 10% and 2% of the isolates, respectively. The occurrence of virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance profiles highlights the need for appropriate strategies to control the spread of these pathogens.202438200885
2661150.9997Antimicrobial resistance in Staphylococcus pseudintermedius on the environmental surfaces of a recently constructed veterinary hospital in Southern Thailand. BACKGROUND AND AIM: Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is a zoonotic bacterium commonly found in animals, especially dogs. These bacteria can survive on environmental surfaces for several months. The infection of S. pseudintermedius from the environment is possible, but properly cleaning surface objects can prevent it. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of methicillin-resistant S. pseudintermedius (MRSP) in the environment of a recently constructed veterinary hospital in Southern Thailand, where we hypothesized that the prevalence of MRSP might be very low. MATERIALS AND METHODS: At three different time points, 150 samples were collected from different environmental surfaces and wastewater across the veterinary hospital. The collection was done after the hospital's cleaning. Bacteria were purified in the culture before being identified as species by biochemical tests and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Next, the antimicrobial-resistant profile was performed using an automated system (Vitek 2). Finally, the antimicrobial resistance genes were identified using PCR. RESULTS: Fifteen colonies of S. pseudintermedius were isolated from the surfaces of eight floors, four tables, two chairs, and one rebreathing tube. Fourteen colonies (93.3%) were multidrug-resistant (MDR) and carried the blaZ gene (93.3%). The majority of colonies were resistant to benzylpenicillin (93.3%), cefovecin (93.3%), ceftiofur (93.3%), kanamycin (93.3%), and neomycin (93.3%). Notably, only four colonies (26.7%) were methicillin-susceptible S. pseudintermedius, whereas 11 colonies (73.3%) were MRSP and carried both the mecA and blaZ genes. Five MRSP (45.5%) were resistant to at least 14 antimicrobial drugs, represented as extensively drug-resistant (XDR) bacteria. Ten of eleven MRSP (90.9%) were Staphylococcal chromosomal mec type V, while another displayed untypeable. Despite the routine and extensive cleaning with detergent and disinfectant, MRSP isolates were still detectable. CONCLUSION: Many isolates of MRSP were found in this veterinary hospital. Almost all of them were MDR, and nearly half were XDR, posing a threat to animals and humans. In addition, the current hospital cleaning procedure proved ineffective. Future research should be conducted to determine the bacterial biofilm properties and bacterial sensitivity to certain detergents and disinfectants.202235698521
2398160.9997Antimicrobial-Resistant Enterococcus spp. in Wild Avifauna from Central Italy. Bacteria of the genus Enterococcus are opportunistic pathogens, part of the normal intestinal microflora of animals, able to acquire and transfer antimicrobial resistance genes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible role of wild avifauna as a source of antimicrobial-resistant enterococci. To assess this purpose, 103 Enterococcus spp. strains were isolated from the feces of wild birds of different species; they were tested for antimicrobial resistance against 21 molecules, vancomycin resistance, and high-level aminoglycosides resistance (HLAR). Furthermore, genes responsible for vancomycin, tetracycline, and HLAR were searched. E. faecium was the most frequently detected species (60.20% of isolates), followed by E. faecalis (34.95% of isolates). Overall, 99.02% of the isolated enterococci were classified as multidrug-resistant, with 19.41% extensively drug-resistant, and 2.91% possible pan drug-resistant strains. Most of the isolates were susceptible to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (77.67%) and ampicillin (75.73%), with only 5.83% of isolates showing an ampicillin MIC ≥ 64 mg/L. HLAR was detected in 35.92% of isolates, mainly associated with the genes ant(6)-Ia and aac(6')-Ie-aph(2″)-Ia. Few strains (4.85%) were resistant to vancomycin, and the genes vanA and vanB were not detected. A percentage of 54.37% of isolates showed resistance to tetracycline; tet(M) was the most frequently detected gene in these strains. Wild birds may contribute to the spreading of antimicrobial-resistant enterococci, which can affect other animals and humans. Constant monitoring is essential to face up to the evolving antimicrobial resistance issue, and monitoring programs should include wild avifauna, too.202235884106
852170.9997Antimicrobial Resistance in Bacteria Isolated from Exotic Pets: The Situation in the Iberian Peninsula. Literature related to antimicrobial resistant (AMR) bacteria in exotic pets is minimal, being essential to report objective data on this topic, which represents a therapeutic challenge for veterinary medicine and public health. Between 2016 and 2020, laboratory records of 3156 exotic pet specimens' microbiological diagnoses and antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) results were examined. The samples were classified into three animal classes: birds (n = 412), mammalia (n = 2399), and reptilian (n = 345). The most prevalent bacteria in birds and mammals were Staphylococcus spp. (15% and 16%), while in reptiles they were Pseudomonas spp. (23%). Pseudomonas was the genus with the highest levels of AMR in all animal groups, followed by Enterococcus spp. By contrast, Gram-positive cocci and Pasteurella spp. were the most sensitive bacteria. Moreover, in reptiles, Stenotrophomonas spp., Morganella spp., and Acinetobacter spp. presented high levels of AMR. Multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria were isolates from reptiles (21%), birds (17%), and mammals (15%). The Enterobacterales had the highest MDR levels: S. marcescens (94.4%), C. freundii (50%), M. morganii (47.4%), K. pneumoniae (46.6%), E. cloacae (44%), and E. coli (38.3%). The prevalence of MDR P. aeruginosa strains was 8%, detecting one isolate with an XDR profile. Regarding antimicrobial use, many antibiotics described as critically important for human use had significant AMR prevalence in bacteria isolated from exotic pets. Under the One-Health approach, these results are alarming and of public health concern since potential transmission of AMR bacteria and genes can occur from exotic pets to their owners in both senses. For this reason, the collaboration between veterinarians and public health professionals is crucial.202235953901
2681180.9997Determination of the Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance of Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium Associated with Poultry in Four Districts in Zambia. The presence of antimicrobial-resistant Enterococci in poultry is a growing public health concern worldwide due to its potential for transmission to humans. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and patterns of antimicrobial resistance and to detect drug-resistant genes in Enterococcus faecalis and E. faecium in poultry from four districts in Zambia. Identification of Enterococci was conducted using phenotypic methods. Antimicrobial resistance was determined using the disc diffusion method and antimicrobial resistance genes were detected using polymerase chain reaction and gene-specific primers. The overall prevalence of Enterococci was 31.1% (153/492, 95% CI: 27.1-35.4). Enterococcus faecalis had a significantly higher prevalence at 37.9% (58/153, 95% CI: 30.3-46.1) compared with E. faecium, which had a prevalence of 10.5% (16/153, 95% CI: 6.3-16.7). Most of the E. faecalis and E. faecium isolates were resistant to tetracycline (66/74, 89.2%) and ampicillin and erythromycin (51/74, 68.9%). The majority of isolates were susceptible to vancomycin (72/74, 97.3%). The results show that poultry are a potential source of multidrug-resistant E. faecalis and E. faecium strains, which can be transmitted to humans. Resistance genes in the Enterococcus species can also be transmitted to pathogenic bacteria if they colonize the same poultry, thus threatening the safety of poultry production, leading to significant public health concerns.202337107019
5601190.9997Presence of Staphylococcus spp. carriers of the mecA gene in the nasal cavity of piglets in the nursery phase. The presence of Staphylococcus spp. resistant to methicillin in the nasal cavity of swine has been previously reported. Considering the possible occurrence of bacterial resistance and presence of resistance genes in intensive swine breeding and the known transmissibility and dispersion potential of such genes, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence of resistance to different antibiotics and the presence of the mecA resistance gene in Staphylococcus spp. from piglets recently housed in a nursery. For this, 60 nasal swabs were collected from piglets at the time of their housing in the nursery, and then Staphylococcus spp. were isolated and identified in coagulase-positive (CoPS) and coagulase-negative (CoNS) isolates. These isolates were subjected to the disk-diffusion test to evaluate the bacterial resistance profile and then subjected to molecular identification of Staphylococcus aureus and analyses of the mecA gene through polymerase chain reaction. Of the 60 samples collected, 60 Staphylococcus spp. were isolated, of which 38 (63.33%) were classified as CoNS and 22 (36.67%) as CoPS. Of these, ten (45.45%) were identified as Staphylococcus aureus. The resistance profile of these isolates showed high resistance to different antibiotics, with 100% of the isolates resistant to chloramphenicol, clindamycin, and erythromycin, 98.33% resistant to doxycycline, 95% resistant to oxacillin, and 85% resistant to cefoxitin. Regarding the mecA gene, 27 (45%) samples were positive for the presence of this gene, and three (11.11%) were phenotypically sensitive to oxacillin and cefoxitin. This finding highlights the importance of researching the phenotypic profile of resistance to different antimicrobials and resistance genes in the different phases of pig rearing to identify the real risk of these isolates from a One Health perspective. The present study revealed the presence of samples resistant to different antibiotics in recently weaned production animal that had not been markedly exposed to antimicrobials as growth promoters or even as prophylactics. This information highlights the need for more research on the possible sharing of bacteria between sows and piglets, the environmental pressure within production environments, and the exposure of handlers during their transport, especially considering the community, hospital, and political importance of the presence of circulating resistant strains.202336634542