Abstract

A growing public health concern is the frequency of antibiotic resistant enteric bacteria in poultry. This study examined the patterns of antibiotic resistance and plasmid presence in enteric bacteria isolated from poultry samples obtained in Rivers State, Nigeria. Enteric bacteria were isolated, identified, and subjected to antibiotic susceptibility testing using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. The plasmid profile of each strain was determined through gel electrophoresis. Findings showed high prevalence of antibiotic-resistant enteric bacteria in poultry meat, with resistance observed against multiple classes of antibiotics commonly used in poultry production. Plasmids were identified in a substantial proportion of these antibiotic-resistant strains, suggesting the potential role of plasmids in mediating antibiotic resistance. Also, 60% of the isolates possessed TEM genes while 50% possessed SHV genes. Isolates Aeromonas caviae, Acinetobacter baumannii and Enterobacter hormachei possessed both genes. This study highlighted the critical requirement for increased monitoring of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms in chicken production systems in Rivers State. These findings have significance for the preservation of public health, antimicrobial stewardship, and food safety.