Phenotypic and molecular characterization of esblproducing the enterobacteriaceae from animal fecal samples in southern punjab, pakistan

The prevalence of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL) producing members of the Enterobacteriaceae family is increasing day by day and becoming a worrisome issue around the globe. But in Pakistan, little is known about ESBL producing bacteria, especially in farm animals. Therefore, we report on the characterization and prevalence of ESBL producing bacteria from the sheep and goat population in Southern Punjab, Pakistan. A total of 200 fecal samples collected, from sheep (n=100) and goats (n=100), were cultured and identification of Enterobacteriaceae was done by standard procedures. Molecular detection of resistant bacteria was further done by PCR (SHV, CTX-M, and TEM). Our results showed the highest percentage of E. coli (88%) followed by K. pneumonia, C. freundii, E. aerogenes, and E. cloacae. The bacterial strains showed high resistance against Cefotaxime and the highest susceptibility towards Ertapenem. PCR-based results revealed CTX-M (26%) as the predominant ESBL gene followed by SHV (14%). TEM was not detected in any bacterial isolate. Overall, our study suggests a high prevalence of ESBL producing Enterobacteriaceae members in sheep and goat farms in Southern Punjab of Pakistan. (author)