SCREENING FOR ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE CHARACTERISTICS OF E. coli ISOLATED FROM POULTRY DROPPINGS IN SOKOTO METROPOLIS

Abstract

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in poultry is a growing public health concern due to the potential transfer of resistant bacteria to humans. This study investigated the screening for antimicrobial resistant genes in poultry droppings collected in Sokoto Metropolis. Fourteen bacterial isolates were identified, including Proteus spp., Salmonella spp., and E. coli. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed that all E. coli isolates were multidrug resistant, with complete resistance to ampicillin and few to amoxicillin, and tetracycline, but variable susceptibility to ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin. Phenotypic screening indicated possible extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) production. Plasmid isolation and agarose gel electrophoresis confirmed the presence of plasmid DNA in the E. coli isolates, suggesting plasmid-mediated resistance. The findings underscore the need for improved antibiotic regulation and surveillance in poultry production to reduce the spread of resistant pathogens.