Prevalence and Risk Factors of Extended-spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Escherichia coli from Poultry Flocks in Benin City, Nigeria

Abstract

People working in proximity to chickens farms or markets are at greater risk of developing antimicrobial resistance from Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-producing Escherichia coli (ESBL-EC) due to its zoonotic potential. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and identify the risk factors associated with ESBL producing E. coli from poultry farm environments across Benin City, Edo State. This Study was conducted at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital in Benin City, Nigeria. A total of 400 isolates of Escherichia coli was obtained from poultry birds’ faeces. Identification of the isolates was done using Standard bacteriological techniques. Antimicrobial susceptibility test was performed using Kirby-Bauer diffusion method. ESBL production by isolates was detected by the method of Double Disc Synergy Test (DDST). The statistical tool used in this study was Chi-square test (p ≤ 0.05 was set for significance). A prevalence rate of 21% ESBL production was detected in the400 isolates of Escherichia coli. The detection rate of ESBL producing E. coli was higher in Hen (28.1%) than in Cocks (17.6%), and comparably higher in poultry birds aged 13-17 weeks old (29%, p = 0.00032). No statistically significant differences were observed between housing system and frequency of antibiotic treatment. The ESBL-producers were most frequently detected in the frequency of the Antibiotic treatment (40%). ESBL-E. coli and non ESBL-E. coli producers were susceptible to Gentamicin and Augmentin. Moreover, ESBL- E. coli producers had a lower susceptibility profile compared to non ESBL- E. coli producers. Conclusively, the introduction of ESBL-producing E. coli from poultry farms to the environment may pose a potential health risk if these bacteria reach places where people may become exposed. The relatively high prevalence of ESBL-producing E. coli recorded in this study calls for routine detection, surveillance, and stricter regulations on antibiotic use among poultry producers in Nigeria.