Descriptive and categorical analyses of live animals imported into Nigeria through an international airport and their enterobacterial load

Abstract

Introduction: Globalization, international trade, and the increase in human and animal populations has enhanced the spread of infectious pathogens across countries. The volume, sources, species, enterobacterial load, and Enterobacteriaceae bacteria of live animals imported through Murtala Muhammed International Airport into Nigeria were investigated. Methods: Data of imported animals from various continents into Nigeria between years 2010 and 2016 were retrieved from Department of Veterinary and Pest Control Services. Faecal samples were collected from dogs and cats imported from April to July 2017 for isolation and identification of Enterobacteriaceae bacteria, and enterobacterial load assessment using MacConkey agar, Nutrient agar and biochemical tests. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square at p < 0.05. Results: A total of 6,349 (median = 676; range: 362-1666) animals were imported. Africa had the largest volume (55.7%), Europe (28.0%) and Oceania lowest (0.1%). Canine (dogs) and feline (cats) (59.9%), caprine and ovine (12.1%), bovine (11.5%), porcine (10.2%) and equine (6.2%) were imported. Continent of origin (χ2= 21.63, p < 0.0001) and species (χ2 = 1200.00, p < 0.0001) were significantly associated with volume of importation. Mean Enterobacteriaceae Counts were 18.126±0.84×107 and 3.855±0.53×107 CFU/gram for dogs and cats, respectively. Escherichia coli, Proteus, Shigella, Citrobacter and Klebsiella species were isolated. Significance: Live animals, mostly dogs and cats imported frequently from Africa and Europe into Nigeria through the airport may constitute a risk of introducing infectious and zoonotic pathogens into the country. Animals imported into Nigeria should be regularly quarantined and assessed microbiologically to ensure disease prevention.