Phenotypic characterization and antimicrobial resistance of <i>Campylobacter jejuni</i> and <i>Campylobacter coli</i> in broiler chickens and slaughterhouse workers in Algeria

Abstract

<b>Objectives: </b>This study assessed the prevalence, phenotypic antimicrobial resistance profiles, and multidrug resistance patterns of <i>Campylobacter jejuni</i> (<i>C. jejuni</i>) and <i>Campylobacter coli </i>(<i>C. coli</i>) isolated from broiler chickens and slaughterhouse workers in Algeria to craft One Health strategies. <b>Material and Methods:</b> Samples were collected from poultry carcasses (n = 300) and slaughterhouse workers (n = 133). <i>Campylobacter</i> spp. were isolated and identified using classical phenotypic microbiological methods, followed by antimicrobial susceptibility testing to assess resistance patterns, including MDR profiles. <b>Results</b>: <i>Campylobacter</i> spp. were detected in 66.3% of samples, with the highest prevalence in caeca (96%) and cloacal swabs (70%), while lower rates were observed in neck skin (33%). Among slaughterhouse workers, <i>Campylobacter </i>was detected in 3.9% of samples from workers in semi-industrial settings and in 5.9% of hand scrapings. <i>Campylobacter jejuni</i> was the predominant species (29%), followed by <i>C. coli</i> (11.3%). High resistance rates were observed against ciprofloxacin (82.6% in<i> C. jejuni</i>, 58% in<i> C. coli</i>) and tetracycline (48% in <i>C. jejuni</i>). Workers’ isolates exhibited 100% resistance to ampicillin, with moderate resistance to other antibiotics. Multidrug resistance was most frequently observed in <i>C. jejuni</i>, particularly against ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, and erythromycin. <b>Conclusion</b>: These findings underscore poultry as critical reservoirs of thermotolerant <i>Campylobacter</i> and the urgent need for a coordinated One Health approach, which is vital to minimize the risk of bacterial transmission and <i>Campylobacter</i> infections, as well as to combat antibiotic resistance. This approach integrates surveillance and control measures to address the interconnection between human, animal, and environmental health in Algeria.