Monitoring the genetic variation of some Escherichia coli strains in wild birds and cattle.

Abstract

To date, there is limited data about the genetic relationship ofEscherichia colibetween wild birds and cattle because these birds act as silent vectors for many zoonotic bacteria. This study aimed to elucidate the role of rooming wild birds in the vicinity of cattle farm in transmission of the same pathogenicE. colivariants, identifying their virulence, resistance traits and genetic similarities offimH virulence gene. About 240 faecal/cloacal swabs were collected from both species and examined bacteriologically.Escherichia coliwas yielded in 45.8% and 32.5%, respectively, of examined cattle and wild birds. The most prevalent detectedE. coliserovar was O26. High tetracycline and chloramphenicol resistance were recorded; however, gentamycin and ciprofloxacin exhibited the highest sensitivity rates. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) conserved genotypic resistance (tetA andblaCTX-M) and virulence attributes (fimH,stx1,eaeA andompA) ofE. coliisolates were discussed in detail. ThefimH gene revealed 100% sequence similarity when comparing with differentE. coliisolates globally and locally. Finally, a close genetic association ofE. coliwith both wild birds and cattle was detected, thus strengthening its role in the dissemination of the infection via environment. Prevention and conservative policy should be carried asE. coliconstitute enormous significant zoonotic risks to livestock and animal workers. Also, further studies to the whole genome sequencing offimH, other virulence and resistance genes ofE. coliare recommended trying to limit the possibilities of co-infection and transfer among different species.Contribution:The current study recorded updated data about the critical infectious role of wild birds to livestock, including cattle farms in Egypt. It also delivered some recommendations for good hygienic practices in cattle farms which must be implemented for handling animal manure.