Emergence of Campylobacter spp. in grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus, Temminck, 1827)

Abstract

ObjectiveTo investigate the presence of Campylobacter spp. in feces of grasscutter farming in Côte d'Ivoire and then to see the possibility for grasscutter meat consumption to constitute a risk for people. MethodsStandard methods of microbiology were used for the isolation of Campylobacter spp. The identification of the bacteria was performed by biochemical and molecular tests. ResultsA total of 138 feces samples were collected from 52 paddocks on an experimental farm and a family farm in Abidjan. Of the 138 samples analyzed, three from the experimental farm were positive for Campylobacter with a prevalence of 2.18%. All the strains isolated was identified as Campylobacter coli. ConclusionsThe presence of Campylobacter coli, a pathogenic bacterium, in cane rats whose meat is highly valued by Ivorians could pose a risk to consumer's health.