Prevalence of multidrug-resistant Enterobacterales in poultry farms in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, using a “One Health approach”

Abstract

Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance poses a major threat to public health, particularly in poultry production systems where close interactions between humans, animals, and the environment promote the spread of multidrug- resistant bacteria. This study aimed to assess the digestive carriage of multidrug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae among poultry farmers, their poultry, and their environment using a “One Health” approach in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. Method : This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted from March to May 2024 on 24 poultry farms. A total of 257 samples were collected: rectal swabs from poultry farmers (n=22), cloacal swabs from poultry (n=223), and samples of their drinking water (n=12). Cultures were performed on selective chromogenic media for the isolation of multidrug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae. Bacterial identification was performed using the Api 20 E (bioMérieux) gallery, and complete antibiograms were performed using the VITEK_TM_2_COMPACT (bioMérieux) automated system. Results : A total of 49 (19.07%) multidrug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae were isolated and identified. The prevalence rates were 31.82%, 17.94%, and 28.57% in poultry farmers, poultry, and animal drinking water, respectively. Escherichia coli was the predominant species (71.4%). Similar resistance profiles were observed in all three sectors studied, with high frequencies of resistance. Conclusion : Poultry farms in Bobo-Dioulasso represent a significant reservoir of multidrug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae. The similarities in antibiotic profiles suggest intersectoral transmission, justifying the urgent strengthening of integrated surveillance of antimicrobial resistance in poultry farming.