Hand Swabs Research Articles

Detection of extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)–production in Salmonella Typhimurium isolated from poultry birds in Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Salmonella Typhimurium is an important zoonotic food borne pathogen and the second most widely studied pathogen in relation to antimicrobial resistance studies in Nigeria. Its resistance to β-lactam antibiotics is on the rise globally due to persistent exposure and production of Extended Spectrum Beta-lactamase enzymes (ESBLs) which is barely reported to occur among food producing animals in Nigeria. This poses a threat to the successful therapy of salmonellosis infections and raises concern on food safety. Further complicating these challenges is the lack of strict laws mitigating antibiotic usage in Nigeria. The study was conducted in the Microbiology laboratory of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Nigeria. A total of 300 samples each of poultry droppings, flesh, feeds, human hand swabs and stool were randomly collected following ethical approval and screened for ESBL- producing S. Typhimurium using standard Microbiological methods of isolation and identification. Antibiotic susceptibility testing, phenotypic ESBL detection and interpretation were carried out as described by the Clinical Laboratory and Standard Institute (CLSI) guideline. The bla genes were identified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. A total of 106 S.Typhimurium were isolated with the following resistance profile; Ampicillin 99(93.4%), Augmentin 104(98.1%), Ceftriaxone 74(69.8%), Ceftazidime 50(47.2%), Imipenem 1(1.0%). The antibiotic resistance of S. Typhimurium in the study is significant (P = 0.01). The Multiple Antibiotic Resistance (MAR) Index was > 0.2. Out of 106 isolates, 32 distinct antimicrobial resistant phenotypes were observed and 62 (81.6%) were confirmed ESBL producers having 19 distinct phenotypes. The bla genes were identified among 38.7% (24/62) isolates; 100% blaSHV (24/24), 87.5 %(21/24)blaTEM with 54.2% (13/24) co-carriage of blaTEM-SHV. The blaCTX-M was not detected. Poultry is therefore an important reservoir and source of transmission of ESBL- producing S.Typhimurium, which is a major public health concern. The high MAR index suggests frequent antibiotic usage within our study area, thus calls for antibiotic stewardship in animal production in Nigeria.

Profile of Multidrug Resistance and Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) on dairy cows and risk factors from farmer

Abstract. Khairullah AR, Sudjarwo SA, Effendi MH, Ramandininto SC, Gelolodo MA, Widodo A, Riwu KHP, Kurniawati DA, Rehman S. 2022. Profile of Multidrug Resistance and Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) on dairy cows and risk factors from farmer. Biodiversitas 23: 2853-2858. Staphylococcus aureus is a facultative anaerobic Gram-positive coccus that causes mastitis and is one of the most widespread pathogenic bacteria in dairy farming. These bacteria can quickly develop into antibiotic-resistant strains due to inappropriate antibiotic administration. Staphylococcus aureus bacteria that have Multidrug-Resistant (MDR) properties can be known as Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus (MRSA) if these bacteria are resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics. The high number of MDR and MRSA contamination in dairy farms as a result of excessive administration of antibiotics in the treatment of dairy cows and the spread of these bacteria cannot be separated from the sanitation management at the time of milking, it can be from milk that is milked from the udder and it can also be from the hands of farmers during the milking process. This study tests antibiotic resistance and detects Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains sourced from milk and hand swabs of farmers in Probolinggo, East Java, Indonesia. A total of 109 dairy cow’s milk samples and 41 samples of farmers’ hand swabs were taken from each farm. Samples were cultured and purified using Mannitol Salt Agar (MSA). Staphylococcus aureus resistance profile was performed by disk diffusion test using antibiotic disks such as Oxacillin, Cefoxitin, Tetracycline, Erythromycin, and Gentamicin. Staphylococcus aureus isolates that were resistant to Oxacillin and Cefoxitin antibiotics were then tested for Oxacillin Resistance Screening Agar Base (ORSAB) as a confirmation test for Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus (MRSA). The results of the isolation and identification found 80 (53.33%) S. aureus isolates, then the results of the resistance test found 8 (10%) S. aureus isolates that were Multidrug-Resistant (MDR), and in the Oxacillin Resistance Screening Agar Base (ORSAB) test there were 3 isolates of S. aureus MDR were ORSAB positive. It can be found that there are several S. aureus isolates that are Multidrug-Resistant (MDR) and Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus (MRSA) in dairy farms. The S. aureus that is MDR and MRSA can be spread to the community and will endanger public health. Thus, prevention and control measures are needed to suppress the spread of S. aureus infection on a dairy farm in Probolinggo, East Java, Indonesia.

Epidemiology and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern of E. coli O157:H7 Along Dairy Milk Supply Chain in Central Ethiopia.

BackgroundEnterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (O157:H7) is the primary cause of bloody diarrhea or hemorrhagic colitis. The study was carried out with to determine the epidemiology and antimicrobial resistance pattern of E. coli O157:H7 along the dairy supply chains in Akaki Kaliti sub-city of Addis Ababa, Bishoftu and Sululta towns of central Ethiopia.MethodsA cross-sectional study design with random sampling methods was employed. Thus, a total of 450 raw cow milk (294), milker hand swab (65) and water (91) samples were collected from dairy farms, milk collection centers and Cafeterias and processed according to the standards to isolate and identify E. coli O157:H7. The samples were initially enriched in buffered peptone water, then plated onto Sorbitol MacConkey agar. Consequently, the suspected non-sorbitol fermenting colonies were confirmed as E. coli biochemically and serological test using latex agglutination tests.ResultsOut of the total 450 samples examined, 6.0% were found to be contaminated by E. coli O157:H7. Accordingly, 9.89% of water, 9.23% of milker hand swab and 4.08% of raw milk samples were contaminated by the pathogen. Furthermore, the prevalence of E. coli O157:H7 was 7.79%, 6.21% and 3.97% in Akaki kaliti sub-city, Sululta and Bishoftu towns, respectively. The result of Fisher exact analysis revealed a significant difference observed (p < 0.05) between the occurrence of the pathogen and the source of sample, sources of water used, sampled material and type of containers. The study also revealed that varying level of resistance of E. coli O157:H7 isolates against nine antimicrobial discs tested and 100% (n = 27) of the isolates showed multidrug-resistance comprising from two up to seven antimicrobial drugs.ConclusionIn conclusion, this study has indicated the occurrence of E. coli O157:H7 and its multiple drug-resistant profiles in milk samples along the dairy supply chains and its risk to public health and food safety. Therefore, proper hygienic practices from dairy farms to fork and rational drug usage are recommended.

Detection and Antimicrobial Resistance of Staphylococcus Species from Chicken, Chicken Litter, and Humans in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Background In veterinary medicine, three Staphylococcus species are of particular importance as primary causes of specific diseases; S. aureus (mastitis in ruminants, equine botryomycosis, and bumble foot in poultry), S. hycus (porcine exudative epidermitis), and S. intermedius (canine pyoderma). The disease conditions caused by Staphylococcus in poultry vary with site, route, and predisposing factors include wounds as a result of fighting/cannibalism, immunosuppression based on virus infection or parasite infestation, and bad husbandry conditions (overcrowding). The objectives of this study were to isolate and identify Staphylococcus spp from chicken and chicken litter and personnel at chicken farm and to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of the isolates. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on apparently healthy chickens, farm personnel, and chicken litter at poultry farms in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A total of 222 samples consisting of 101 cloacal swabs, 90 tracheal swabs, 17 pooled litter swabs, 7 nasal swabs, and 7 pooled hand and boot swabs were collected from six farms and examined for the presence of Staphylococcus species. Antimicrobial resistance against 10 antimicrobial agents was also conducted following recommended standard procedures. Results Overall proportion of Staphylococcus was 64/222 (28.83%). Of the isolates, 40/64 (62.5%), 11/64 (17.2%), 3/64 (4.7%), and 10/64 (15.6%), were S. aureus, S. hycus, S. intermedius, and coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS), respectively. Only one isolate of S. aureus was susceptible to all antimicrobials tested. Of the 10 antibiotics tested, the isolates demonstrated highest resistance against Penicillin G (96.9%) followed by Tetracycline (78.1%), and Amoxicillin and Erythromycin at the same level (65.6%). Conversely, the isolates were highly susceptible to Ciprofloxacin (95.3%) followed by Sulphamethoxazole-trimethoprim (85.9%). Out of 64 isolates, 61/64 (95.3%) were resistant to three or more antimicrobials tested. Of the isolates, 38/40 (95%) S. aureus, 10/11 (90.9%) S. hycus, 3/3 (100%) S. intermedius, and 10/10 (100%) CNS showed multidrug resistance. Conclusion This study showed a considerable proportion of Staphylococcus spp in chicken litter and farm workers with a potential source of resistant Staphylococcus species, and more importantly multidrug resistance strains. Further studies on molecular characterization of the isolates will be essential to identify the resistant genes and establish epidemiological links in the transmission dynamics of resistant Staphylococcus species between poultry and humans.

Prevalence and diversity of Staphylococcus aureus in the Zambian dairy value chain: A public health concern

Staphylococcus aureus is an important opportunistic pathogen of both humans and animals. It can cause several diseases, including mastitis, as well as food poisoning by production of heat-stable enterotoxins in food. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of S. aureus and the diversity of strains circulating in the Zambian dairy value chain, which have not been studied in detail before. Three provinces were covered by the study (Lusaka, Southern, and Western) and almost 2000 samples along the dairy value chain, covering both the informal and formal market sectors, were taken at two time points (dry and wet season), with a special focus on raw milk. Nearly 300 presumptive S. aureus isolates were confirmed by MALDI-TOF MS and real-time PCR. Raw milk from traditional and smallholder farms was widely contaminated with S. aureus; prevalence was 33–46% depending on the study province. Raw milk from milk collection centres, informal traders, traditional market sellers, and processors were also frequently contaminated with S. aureus. In addition, S. aureus was detected in several milk bucket swabs and nasal and hand swabs of milkers. From industrially processed (heat-treated) milk and dairy products, no S. aureus was isolated. Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) were not detected, but around 10% of the S. aureus isolates carried lukS-PV, a marker gene for the virulence factor Pantone-Valentine leucocidin (PVL), which has been associated with severe diseases in human. Molecular typing identified a total of 44 spa types including 13 novel types: t18396, t18397, t18398, t18399, t18400, t18402, t18416, t20459, t20460, t20461, t20462, t20463, and t20464. Furthermore, 12 novel multi-locus sequence types were identified: ST7012, ST7100, ST7101, ST7177, ST7291, ST7304, ST7305, ST7344, ST7596, ST7597, ST7598, and ST7599, of which ST7012, ST7177, and ST7596 fall into the bovine-associated clonal linage CC97. The spa types t084, t267, t355, and the novel type t20464 were common in all three study provinces. The predominant spa type varied depending on the province. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) and core genome multi-locus sequence typing (cgMLST) indicates transmission of strains along the Zambian dairy chain with possible persistence in the chain over time. cgMLST also revealed a very close relatedness between some isolates from milkers and from raw milk or milk buckets. The high prevalence and wide spa type diversity of S. aureus, as well as possible direct or indirect transmission of (potentially highly virulent) S. aureus to humans along the Zambian dairy value chain, are of public health concern, particularly as milk and milk products are often consumed raw by the Zambian population.

Hand and nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus and its rate of recolonization among healthcare workers of a tertiary care hospital in Nepal.

BackgroundCarriers of Staphylococcus aureus among healthcare workers (HCWs) can spread the bacteria to patients and the environment, in addition to their own risk of infection.ObjectivesTo determine the prevalence of S. aureus carriers among HCWs and the rate of recolonization after decolonization therapy with mupirocin.MethodsNasal and hand swabs from HCWs of a tertiary care hospital in Nepal were cultured on mannitol salt agar and S. aureus isolated were identified using standard microbiological procedures. Detection of MRSA and mupirocin-resistant S. aureus (MupRSA) isolates were done phenotypically. Identified S. aureus carriers were decolonized with 2% mupirocin nasal ointment. Recolonization of the carriers was assessed monthly for the next 5 months.ResultsAmong the 213 HCWs, 18.3% were S. aureus carriers (35 nasal carriers, 4 both nasal and hand carriers, and no hand carriers). Overall, 9.4% of the HCWS were MRSA carriers and none were MupRSA carriers. After decolonization, 25.6% of them were recolonized and 50.0% of the recolonization was detected after 3 months of decolonization. All recolonized carriers had only MSSA strains (which colonized only nose), and none were recolonized with MupRSA.ConclusionsHCWs are frequent carriers of S. aureus and MRSA. Due to their continuous exposure to the hospital environment, they are at risk of colonization by this MDR organism. Regular screening and decolonization of HCWs working with high risk, vulnerable patients would reduce the risk of MRSA transmission from HCWs to patients.

Airborne and Dermal Collection Methods of Gunshot Residue for Toxicity Studies

Gunshot residue (GSR) has potential negative health effects on humans as a result of inhalation and dermal exposure to the chemical and physical characteristics of GSR such as Pb, Sb, Ba, nitrocellulose, nitroglycerine, and particulate size fraction. Filter (size selective) and double-sided tape (non-size selective) samples collected airborne GSR during single and triple firing of a 0.22 caliber revolver. Dermal exposures were considered using hand swabs and de-leading wipes, designed to remove the heavy metals. The samples underwent analysis to investigate physical (morphology, size distribution, zeta potential), chemical (black carbon and element concentrations), and potential to induce oxidative stress (oxidative potential via the dithiothreitol (DTT) assay). All sample types detected Pb concentrations higher than national ambient air standards. The de-leading wipes reduced the metal content on the hands of the shooter for Pb (15.57 ± 12.99 ppb and 3.13 ± 4.95 ppb). Filter samples provided health relevant data for airborne PM2.5 for all of the analysis methods except for GSR morphology. This work identified collection and analysis methods for GSR in an outdoor setting, providing protocols and considerations for future toxicological studies related to inhalation and dermal exposures to particulate GSR. Future studies should investigate the influence of meteorological factors on GSR exposure in an outdoor setting.

Frequency of transmission, asymptomatic shedding, and airborne spread of Streptococcus pyogenes in schoolchildren exposed to scarlet fever: a prospective, longitudinal, multicohort, molecular epidemiological, contact-tracing study in England, UK

SummaryBackgroundDespite recommendations regarding prompt treatment of cases and enhanced hygiene measures, scarlet fever outbreaks increased in England between 2014 and 2018. We aimed to assess the effects of standard interventions on transmission of Streptococcus pyogenes to classroom contacts, households, and classroom environments to inform future guidance.MethodsWe did a prospective, longitudinal, multicohort, molecular epidemiological, contact-tracing study in six settings across five schools in Greater London, UK. Schools and nurseries were eligible to participate if they had reported two cases of scarlet fever within 10 days of each other among children aged 2–8 years from the same class, with the most recent case arising in the preceding 48 h. We cultured throat swabs from children with scarlet fever, classroom contacts, and household contacts at four timepoints. We also cultured hand swabs and cough plates from all cases in years 1 and 2 of the study, and from classroom contacts in year 2. Surface swabs from toys and other fomites in classrooms were cultured in year 1, and settle plates from classrooms were collected in year 2. Any sample with S pyogenes detected was recorded as positive and underwent emm genotyping and genome sequencing to compare with the outbreak strain.FindingsSix classes, comprising 12 cases of scarlet fever, 17 household contacts, and 278 classroom contacts were recruited between March 1 and May 31, 2018 (year 1), and between March 1 and May 31, 2019 (year 2). Asymptomatic throat carriage of the outbreak strains increased from 11 (10%) of 115 swabbed children in week 1, to 34 (27%) of 126 in week 2, to 26 (24%) of 108 in week 3, and then five (14%) of 35 in week 4. Compared with carriage of outbreak S pyogenes strains, colonisation with non-outbreak and non-genotyped S pyogenes strains occurred in two (2%) of 115 swabbed children in week 1, five (4%) of 126 in week 2, six (6%) of 108 in week 3, and in none of the 35 children in week 4 (median carriage for entire study 2·8% [IQR 0·0–6·6]). Genome sequencing showed clonality of outbreak isolates within each of six classes, confirming that recent transmission accounted for high carriage. When transmissibility was tested, one (9%) of 11 asymptomatic carriers of emm4 and five (36%) of 14 asymptomatic carriers of emm3.93 had a positive cough plate. The outbreak strain was identified in only one (2%) of 60 surface swabs taken from three classrooms; however, in the two classrooms with settle plates placed in elevated locations, two (17%) of 12 and six (50%) of 12 settle plates yielded the outbreak strain.InterpretationTransmission of S pyogenes in schools is intense and might occur before or despite reported treatment of cases, underlining a need for rapid case management. Despite guideline adherence, heavy shedding of S pyogenes by few classroom contacts might perpetuate outbreaks, and airborne transmission has a plausible role in its spread. These findings highlight the need for research to improve understanding and to assess effectiveness of interventions to reduce airborne transmission of S pyogenes.FundingAction Medical Research, UK Research Innovation, and National Institute for Health Research.

Isolation, identification and antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Salmonella isolated from poultry farms in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Background Salmonella has been found to be the major cause of foodborne diseases and a serious public health problem in the world, with an increasing concern for the emergence and spread of antimicrobial‐resistant strains.MethodA cross‐sectional study was conducted on poultry and poultry farms in Addis Ababa from February 2016 to April 2016 to determine the occurrence and evaluate the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Salmonella isolates. A total of 200 samples consisting of the cloacal swab (n = 168), pooled litter (n = 12), hand swab (n = 8), pooled feed and water (n = 12) were collected separately from six poultry farms. The samples were examined for the presence of Salmonella through culturing on bacteriological media. Descriptive statistics, Pearson's Chi‐square (X2) and bivariate logistic regression were used in the analysis of the data. Accordingly, out of 200 samples, 23 (11.50%) were Salmonella positive, of which 21(12.50%) were in cloacal swab and 2(16.67%) in the pooled litter. There was no statistical association between the bacteriological status of sample type and Salmonella positivity (X2 = 3.07, P = 0.545). However, there was a statistical association between farms and the rate of Salmonella isolation (X2 = 22.21, P ≤ 0.00). The antimicrobial susceptibility testing for Salmonella isolates was conducted following the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method (1961).ResultsOut of 23 samples tested, 95.65% of them were resistant to at least one or more antimicrobials. Multiple drug resistances were observed for 69.56% of Salmonella isolates. The highest resistance (73.9%) was observed in kanamycin followed by tetracycline (65.2%) and streptomycin (56.3%). gentamycin was the most effective antibiotic (95.7%; sensitivity) followed by ciprofloxacin (78.3% sensitivity) and ampicillin (69.6% sensitivity.ConclusionThis current study finding indicated that further detailed epidemiological and molecular studies are essential on the frequency and sources of acquisition of resistant genes.

Molecular characterisation of methicillin-resistant and methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus clones isolated from healthy dairy animals and their caretakers in Egypt

The purpose of this study was to describe the clonal diversity of Staphylococcus aureus strains derived from healthy dairy cattle and buffaloes as well as their close contact caretakers from the Nile Delta region, Egypt during 2019 and 2020, and to determine their antimicrobial resistance genotypes and virulence determinants. The study included 360 samples (120 from each, dairy cattle, buffaloes and their contact caretakers) collected from eight smallholding dairy herds.The samples included udder skin swabs, composite milk samples and rectal swabs (40 samples each of bovines) and nasal swabs, hand swabs and stool specimens (40 samples each of caretakers). S. aureus were isolated by classical techniques and characterised using the DNA microarray technology. A total of 62 methicillin-resistant (MRSA) and 130 methicillin-sensitive (MSSA) S. aureus isolates were identified. MRSA carriage rate ranged between 2.5% - 15% (Mean: 10%) in dairy cattle, 5% - 15% (9.2%) in dairy buffaloes and 27.5% - 37.5% (30.8%) among the caretakers. Nine different clonal lineages of MRSA (including CC22, CC152, CC5, CC30, CC88, CC45, CC121, CC97, and CC15), and six clonal lineages of MSSA (CC97, CC50, CC188, CC361, CC15 and CC1278) were inferred. The study demonstrated, for the first time, a high clonal diversity of multi-drug resistant S. aureus clones (particularly CC152-MRSA-V, CC30-MRSA-IV, CC121-MRSA-V, CC15-MRSA-V, CC97-MRSA-PseudoSCCmec, CC361-MSSA and CC1278-MSSA) which colonise dairy cattle and buffaloes as well as their caretakers particularly in Damietta villages that located at the northern Mediterranean coast of Egypt. The findings highlight the potential dynamics of humans and animals’ S. aureus strains which may represent a health threat for both populations. The complete absence of the lukM/lukF-P83 genes in the recovered isolates indicated that all recovered cattle isolates (except for CC97) were descendants of human lineages and that these replaced the original cow lineages. Hence, a recommendation was given to farm owners to review their hygiene regimen to help minimize the microbiological risks for both populations.

Isolation, Identification, and Susceptibility Profile of E. coli, Salmonella, and S. aureus in Dairy Farm and Their Public Health Implication in Central Ethiopia.

A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2018 to May 2019 in Bishoftu and Dukem in central part of Ethiopia. The objectives of the present study were to isolate and identify S. aureus, E. coli, and Salmonella from dairy cattle, personnel, and equipment at farms. In addition to this, antimicrobial resistance profiles of the isolates were determined. A total of 607 samples consisting of fresh cow milk (125), fecal sample (211), nasal swab (211), pooled milkers' hand swabs (20), pooled floor swabs (20), and tank milk (20) samples were collected from 20 dairy farms, which included 211 animals. Structured questionnaire was designed and administered to dairy farm owners and dairy food consumers to assess their consumption behavior and antibiotics usage. The samples were examined for the presence of S. aureus, E. coli, and Salmonella following standard techniques and procedures outlined by the International Organization for Standardization. Subsequently, 62 (15.7%) of S. aureus were isolated from 396 of the totals analyzed samples for S. aureus. Out of the 62 isolated S. aureus, 35/211(16.7%), 19/125(15.2%), 6/20(30%), 2/20(10%), and 0/20(0%) were from nasal swabs, udder milk, bulk milk, pooled hand swab, and floor swabs, respectively. On the other hand, 30 (7.6%) of E. coli were isolated from 396 of the totals analyzed samples for E. coli. Out of the 30 isolated E. coli, 17/211(8.1%), 12/125(9.6%), 0/20(0%), 0/20(0%), and 1/20(5%) were from faeces, udder milk, bulk milk, pooled hand swab, and floor swabs, respectively. In line with this, 13 (4.8%) of Salmonella were isolated from 271 of the totals analyzed samples for Salmonella. Out of the 13 isolated Salmonella, 10/211(4.7%), 2/20(10%), 0/20(0%), and 1/20(5%) were from faeces, bulk milk, pooled hand swab, and floor swabs, respectively. Subsequently, 62 of S. aureus, 30 of E. coli, and 13 of Salmonella isolates were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and all isolates were resistant to at least one or more antimicrobials tested. Penicillin, methicillin, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole are drugs to which a large proportion of isolated S. aureus were highly resistant, which range from 90% to 100%. From 30 tested E. coli, they showed (83%) resistance to Tetracycline and 80% to Vancomycin. The resistance level of 13 isolated Salmonella was 69% to Nalidixic acid and 54% to Vancomycin. Multiple drug resistance was detected in high (98.4%) for S. aureus, (56.7%) for E. coli, and (53.9%) for Salmonella. High proportion of multiple drug resistant in the dairy farm alerts concern for animal and public health as these drugs are used widely for treatment and prophylaxis in animals and humans.

Massive Spread of OXA-48 Carbapenemase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae in the Environment of a Swiss Companion Animal Clinic.

Background: Companion animal clinics contribute to the spread of antimicrobial resistant microorganisms (ARM) and outbreaks with ARM of public health concern have been described. Methods: As part of a project to assess infection prevention and control (IPC) standards in companion animal clinics in Switzerland, a total of 200 swabs from surfaces and 20 hand swabs from employees were collected during four days in a medium-sized clinic and analyzed for extended spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E), carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE), vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE), and methicillin-resistant staphylococci (MRS). Results: A total of 22 (11.0%) environmental specimen yielded CPE, 14 (7.0%) ESBL-E, and 7 (3.5%) MRS; MR Staphylococcus aureus were isolated from two (10.0%) hand swabs. The CPE isolates comprised Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter hormaechei, Citrobacter braakii, and Serratia marcescens. Whole genome sequencing revealed that all CPE carried closely related blaOXA-48 plasmids, suggesting a plasmidic spread within the clinic. The clinic exhibited major deficits in surface disinfection, hand hygiene infrastructure, and hand hygiene compliance. CPE were present in various areas, including those without patient contact. The study documented plasmidic dissemination of blaOXA-48 in a companion animal clinic with low IPC standards. This poses a worrisome threat to public health and highlights the need to foster IPC standards in veterinary clinics to prevent the spread of ARM into the community.

Antimicrobial Resistance of some Gram-negative Bacilli Isolated from various sources in Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Aim: To isolate and detect the antimicrobial resistance of some Gram-negative Bacilli Isolated from various sources in Port Harcourt, Nigeria.&#x0D; Study Design: Cross-sectional study.&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Trans-Amadi and Rumuodomaya Slaughters and Bob-D Ventures Poultry Farms, all in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, between July and December, 2019.&#x0D; Methodology: This study was conducted at Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor local government areas of Rivers State, Nigeria from 2019-2020. Hospital wastewater was taken from different sections at the two University Teaching Hospitals- University of Port Harcourt and Rivers State University Teaching Hospitals. Abattoir effluent water samples were taken at different sites from Trans-Amadi and Rumuodumaya Abattoirs. Chicken cloaca samples as well as Hand swab samples of Butchers were collected at the two Abattoirs. All samples were processed following standard procedures and identified organisms were assessed for susceptibilities to different antibiotics following Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion and Microbroth dilution methods. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. Percentages and Chi square were used to summarize the data and p values less than 0.05 were considered significant.&#x0D; Results: Out of a total of 482 samples consisting of Hospital wastewater (84), Chicken cloaca swab (76), Abattoir Effluent water (182), Poultry Dung (96) and Butchers’ Hand Swab (44) investigated for possible recovery of some Gram-Negative organisms, 224 target bacterial isolates were identified. Escherichia coli showed highest percentage occurrence 124 (25.7%), while Klebsiella pneumoniae had 80 (16.5%) and the least rate of occurrence was Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 20 (4.1%). A total of 38 bacteria were isolated from the wastewater samples of the two hospitals; 44 were isolated from the Chicken cloaca samples; 80 from Abattoir Effluent Water samples; 50 from Poultry dung and 12 from Butchers’ hand swabs. Organisms were most susceptible to Imipenem (97%) and most resistance to Nalidixic acid (92%).&#x0D; Conclusion: Multiple drug resistance to the commonly used antibiotics is high in the study area. The contamination of wastewater by antibiotics or other pollutants lead to the rise of resistance due to selection pressure. The presence of antibiotic resistance organisms in these wastewaters should not be overlooked. Proper wastewater treatment and improved sanitary measures are advocated.

MecA positive Staphylococcus spp. in bovine mastitis, milkers, milking environment, and the circulation of different MRSA clones at dairy cows farms in the Northeast region of Brazil

ABSTRACT: This study detected the presence and distribution of mecA in Staphylococcus spp. in the dairy production environment at farm level in Brazil. We analyzed 335 samples of mastitis cow milk, 15 samples of nostrils and hand swabs from milkers, 14 teat cup swabs, and 9 milking buckets swabs. Initially, the samples were subjected to microbiological analysis to detect Staphylococcus spp. and then S. aureus and mecA positive isolates were identified by PCR. All S. aureus isolates carrying the mecA genes were subjected to DNA macro-restriction analysis by Pulsed-Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE). The mecA gene was detected in 6/335 (1.78%) of mastitis cow milk, 5/15 (33.3%), and 5/15 (33.3%) of nostrils and hand swab, and 4/14 (28.5%) of the teat cup isolates. MRSA genotyping was performed by PFGE, a total of seven pulsotypes were grouped in two clusters. This study identified the occurrence and spread of MRSA at dairy environment of farms, and also the existence of distinct genetic profiles between isolates.

Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance Profile of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains Isolated from Food Products and Food Handlers in Egypt

The study aimed to determine the prevalence and phenotypic antimicrobial resistance pattern of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolated from food products and food handlers at different retail outlets and superstores in Alexandria city, Egypt. A total of 100 food products including raw milk, Damietta cheese, beef burger, sausage, and chicken pane (20 of each) as well as 100 hand swabs were randomly collected from 100 food handlers and screened for the presence of MRSA using MRSA selective agar medium. MRSA isolate was confirmed from each nuc /mecA PCR-positive sample. The overall prevalence rate of MRSA in food products and food handlers was 12% and 5%, respectively. Concerning the food products samples, the highest rate of isolation was recorded in the examined samples of beef burger (20%), followed by sausage (15%) then raw milk and chicken pane (10%) and finally Damietta cheese (5%). The antimicrobial susceptibility testing of the 12 MRSA isolates from food products samples clarified that all (100%) MRSA isolates showed resistance to Cefoxitin and Penicillin G. On the contrary, 100% of the isolates were sensitive to Ceftaroline and Linezolid. Regarding food handlers, prevalence rate was 5.3% in males and 4.2% in females. The phenotypic antimicrobial resistance pattern of the 5 MRSA isolates from food handlers revealed that all (100%) MRSA isolates exhibited resistance to Cefoxitin and Penicillin G. Conversely, 100% of the isolates were sensitive to Ceftaroline and Linezolid. The results of the current study suggest that raw food products may have been contaminated with MDR MRSA strains which could be a potential public health risk. Moreover, these findings unequivocally show the need for enhanced hygiene standards to minimize the risk of occupational and food-borne illness associated with handling and/or consuming raw animal food products harboring MRSA.

Assessment of Hygienic Status of Some Local Abattoirs and its Impact on Meat Quality

The current study was conducted to evaluate the hygienic status of some local abattoirs and its impact on meat quality through determination of aerobic plate, Enterobacteriaceae, coliforms, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococci, molds, and yeasts counts. This study was conducted in 5 municipal slaughterhouses located in different provinces, Egypt. A total of 300 samples were collected as following: slaughtered meat, water, and air samples beside swabs from floor, wall, and workers hand (50 samples/each). Statistical analytical results of aerobic plate count clarified that the highest mean value was recorded in the floor swabs (8.9×105 CFU/g) followed by hand swabs of workers (7.41×105 CFU/g) then wall swabs and air samples (7.2×105 CFU/g) then water samples (5.2×105 CFU/g) and lastly meat samples (1.3×105 CFU/g). The highest mean value of Enterobacteriaceae count was recorded in the floor swabs (3.2×104 CFU/g) followed by wall swabs (9.3×103 CFU/g) then air samples (6.63×103 CFU/g) then hand swabs of workers (5.33×103 CFU/g) then water samples (3.19×103 CFU/g) and lastly meat samples (9.02×102 CFU/g). The highest mean value of coliforms count was recorded in the floor swabs (1.65×103 CFU/g) followed by hand swabs of workers (7.23×102 CFU/g) then meat samples (6.10×102 CFU/g) then water samples (4.10×102 CFU/g) then wall swabs (1.72×102 CFU/g) and lastly air samples (1.32×102 CFU/g). On comparison of various microbiological counts on the investigated meat samples with the Egyptian standards, it was clear that most of samples failed to comply with standards confirming the role of contaminated abattoir environment in the obtained result. Results of microbiological examination of the collected samples reflected a clear state of contamination in abattoirs environment that would affect the microbiological quality of the produced meat from these abattoirs that in turn would be harmful for human health.

Handwashing Practice of Food Establishment Customers, Microbial Quality of Handwashing Water, and Associated Factors in Ginjo Kebele, Jimma Town, Southwest Ethiopia.

Handwashing plays a major role in preventing the spread of infection and, if poorly implemented, leads to different illnesses. However, the quality of water meant for handwashing and handwashing practice and hand hygiene conditions of food establishment customers are overlooked issues, unlike drinking water and hygienic conditions and practice of food handlers. This study aimed to assess the microbial quality of water used for handwashing and hygienic practice and the status of customers of food establishments and associated factors in Ginjo Kebele, Jimma town, Southwest, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study design was employed in July 2022. Forty water and 40 hand swab samples were taken and analyzed for total coliform and E. coli using the spread plate method. Handwashing facility conditions and the handwashing practices of customers were assessed using a checklist and questionnaire. The data were analyzed by SPSS version 23 software. The median handwashing water total coliform count was 390.0 CFU/ml. The median hand swab samples' total coliform and E. coli load were 21.6 and 4.8 CFU/cm2, respectively after handwashing practice. There was an uphill correlation between the handwashing water and hand swab sample total coliform load (r = .34, P = .032). The mean handwashing efficacy for the removal of total coliform was 25.8%. The microbial load was varied with the type of water container used, method of taking water from the container, handwashing practice, and hand drying. The microbial quality of handwashing water and hand swab samples didn't comply with the acceptable limit. Thus, governmental bodies should work to improve the handwashing practice of communities. Food establishment owners should treat water for handwashing, clean the water containers, handle the water properly, and avail soap and poster demonstrators to the handwashing facilities. The customers should also comply with proper hand washing practices and reduce hand contamination.

Anti – Microbial effect of three essential oils in treating Upper respiratory tract Infection via vapours generated by Pressurized steam chamber (PSC)

Disinfection tunnel (DT) or sanitization tunnel used for disinfecting the persons by spraying with appropriately atomized virucide spray, Direct inhalation or spraying of disinfectants on people with chemical element and different toxicant chemicals may lead to eye and skin irritation and cause numerous allergic disorders. So this obstacle was overcome by Ideal flow control private limited by designing the Pressurized Steam Chamber (PSC) in which Natural oils was mixed in an emulsifier solution, and induced along with steam through multiple nozzles within the chamber, so that persons could get disinfected the entire body. Anti-microbial efficacy of our three essentials oils were determined by standard method, ISO 4833-1:2013 by collecting sample through walk in/walk out chamber protocol. Our present study report of MSME (ministry of micro, small and medium enterprises) and SGS Chennai, reveals that in phytotherapeutic oils initial microbial load are found to be &lt;1 CFU / mL, in emulsifier and in formulation (water + emulsifier + natural oils) the presence of bacterial colonies found to be 470000 CFU / mL and 20000000 CFU / mL whereas, the distillate collected from essential oils at 65̊ c shows the absence of microbial load. Further swab analysis report of 8 individuals states that samples (hand swab and surface swab) collected for the estimation of Total plate Count showed that there is a reduction in microbial load when exposed to the Steam generated by Pressurized Steam Chamber (PSC) at both the time intervals, 20 and 40 seconds. These findings confirm that three essential phytotherapeutic oils combined with steam have some potent activity against emerging disease.

Extended-spectrum β-lactamase Enzymes (ESBLs) and Slime Production of some Gram-negative Bacilli Isolated from Human, Animal and Environmental Sources in Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Aim: To determine extended-spectrum β-lactamase enzymes (ESBLS) and slime production of some Gram-negative Bacilli isolated from human, animal and environmental sources in Port Harcourt, Nigeria&#x0D; Study design: Cross-sectional study.&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Trans-Amadi and Rumuodomaya Slaughters and Bob-D Ventures Poultry Farms, all in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, between July and December, 2019.&#x0D; Methodology: This study was conducted at Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor local government areas of Rivers State, Nigeria from 2019-2020. Hospital wastewater was taken from different sections at the two University Teaching Hospitals- University of Port Harcourt and Rivers State University Teaching Hospitals. Abattoir effluent water samples were taken at different sites from Trans-Amadi and Rumuodumaya Abattoirs. Chicken cloaca samples as well as Hand swab samples of Butchers were collected at the two Abattoirs. All samples were processed following standard procedures and identified organisms were assessed for susceptibilities to different antibiotics following Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion and Microbroth dilution methods. Isolates from the susceptibility testing with zone diameters found to be resistant to the Cephalosporins were suspected to be ESBL Positive (β-lactamase positive isolates). All isolates were also subjected to detection of slime production by Congo red agar plate method. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. Percentages and Chi square were used to summarize the data and p values less than 0.05 were considered significant.&#x0D; Results: The results showed that out of the 224 isolates, 38 (17.0%) were ESBL-producing. ESBL-producers were more frequently isolated from Hospital Wastewaters (26.3%), followed by isolates from Poultry dung samples 12(24.0%) and Abattoir Effluent waters (15.0%). No ESBL-producing bacteria was recovered from the Butchers’ Hand swabs. Again, of the 38 ESBL-producing organisms, E. coli accounted for 24 (63.2%), followed by Klebsiella spp. 8 (21.1%), while Pseudomonas sp. recorded 6 (15.8%). Of the 224 isolates, 98 (43.8) were slime-producing, while 23 (60.5%) of the 38 ESBL-producing isolates produced slime.&#x0D; Conclusion: ESBL and slime producing organisms (mostly E. coli) were more frequently isolated from Hospital Wastewaters compared to other sample areas.

Prevalence and Characterization of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus from Meat Retail Shops and Meat Handlers in the Buea Municipality, Cameroon

Aim: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a notorious multidrug-resistant biovar of S. aureus associated with infections that result in high morbidity and mortality in humans and animals. Its persistence in both host and non-host environments adds a major ecological dimension to the problem, thereby making it a one health challenge. This study determined the prevalence and antibiotic resistance patterns of MRSA from meat retail shops and meat handlers in the Buea municipality in addition to basic hygiene practices implemented in the meat retail shops.&#x0D; Study Design: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 260 samples (comprising 52 swabs each from weighing balances, butchering slabs, cutting knives, hands of meat handlers and meat samples) were randomly obtained and subjected to microbiological analysis. Data on sociodemographic characteristics of meat handlers and basic hygiene practices were captured in a questionnaire.&#x0D; Methodology: After enrichment, each sample was inoculated on mannitol salt agar and DNA extracted from presumptive S. aureus isolates for detection of the nuc gene. MRSA was identified by oxacillin disk diffusion and confirmed by amplification of the mecA gene. All MRSA isolates were challenged with 10 commonly used antibiotics using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method.&#x0D; Results: A total of 27 MRSA isolates were recovered from hand swabs (5.8%), meat (15.4%), knives swabs (21.2%) and butchering slabs (9.6%). All (100%) MRSA were resistant to ampicillin and cefepime followed by ofloxacin (92.6%), ciprofloxacin (81.5%) and vancomycin (37%). High susceptibility was observed for gentamicin (100%) and amikacin (100%). All isolates were multidrug-resistant and comprised 11 antibiotypes. Most meat handlers (71.2%) did not have basic meat safety training, while 90.4% of the meat retail shops did not have a nearby water source.&#x0D; Conclusion: Our results indicate that meat retail shops could be a potential reservoir of MRSA in the environment and meat handlers need more basic meat safety training.