Prevalence, Antimicrobial Resistance and Molecular Characterization of Escherichia coli in Milk Samples from Jashore District, Bangladesh
Elma Siddique Esha
Elma Siddique Esha, Department of Microbiology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore, Bangladesh, elmaesha23@gmail.com
Shohanur Rahaman
Shohanur Rahaman, Department of Microbiology, Popular Diagnostic Limited, Dhaka, Bangladesh, shohanbuhs@gmail.com
Sadia Islam
Sadia Islam, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Bangladesh Specialized Hospital Limited, Dhaka, Bangladesh, sadia.buhs.6700@gmail.com
Md. Ashiqur Rahman
Md. Ashiqur Rahman, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Novus Clinical Research Services Limited, Dhaka, Bangladesh, ararashiqur@gmail.com
DOI: https://doi.org/10.59429/mmr.v3i1.8574
Keywords: Escherichia coli; Antimicrobial Resistance; Milk; PCR
Abstract
Background: Escherichia coli is a common microbial flora in milk and milk products and is known to be a leading cause of illness in humans. It can lead to severe infections such as cellulitis, septicemia, and airsacculitis. Due to its potential health risks, monitoring and control of E. coli in milk are crucial for public health.
Objective: The study aimed to determine the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance patterns of E. coli from milk samples collected from various areas in Jashore District, Bangladesh.
Methods: A total of sixty milk samples were collected from different areas in Jashore. The samples were enriched in saline water, followed by serial dilution, and plated on MacConkey agar. Isolates were further cultured on EMB agar plates, identified using biochemical methods, and tested for antimicrobial resistance against seven antibiotics using MHA agar plates. DNA extraction and PCR amplification were performed to detect specific virulence genes using multiplex primers.
Results: Out of sixty isolates, 100% of E. coli isolates were resistant to erythromycin. Resistance was also observed to chloramphenicol (15%), gentamicin (18%), trimethoprim (0%), streptomycin (12%), cefoxitin (56%), and aztreonam (0%). The highest susceptibility was observed with cefoxitin and aztreonam. PCR results showed no amplification of virulence genes in the isolates.
Conclusion: The study found high antimicrobial resistance in E. coli from milk in Jashore, posing a public health risk. While virulence genes were not detected, the resistance highlights the need for better milk handling and stricter antibiotic use regulations in the dairy industry.
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