Prevalence of Zoonotic Gastrointestinal Helminths, Bacterial Infections, and Antimicrobial Resistance Profile of Escherichia coli in Cattle and Slaughterhouse Workers in Buea Subdivision, Cameroon

Abstract

Background: The increasing burden of zoonotic gastrointestinal helminths and antimicrobial-resistant bacterial pathogens associated with cattle and slaughterhouse environments poses a significant public health threat, highlighting the need for surveillance and control measures in Buea Sub Division, Cameroon. Aims: This study investigated the prevalence of zoonotic gastrointestinal helminths and evaluated the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of bacteria isolated from cattle and slaughterhouse workers in Buea Sub Division, Cameroon. Study Design: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study involving parasitological and bacteriological investigations among cattle and slaughterhouse workers. The study also incorporated laboratory-based antimicrobial susceptibility testing and a questionnaire survey to assess knowledge of zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and biosafety practices among slaughterhouse workers. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in the Buea Town and Muea slaughterhouses, Buea Sub Division, Cameroon, from October 2024 to April 2025. Methodology: A total of 400 cattle fecal samples and 40 human fecal samples were collected and analyzed using flotation and sedimentation techniques for parasitological examination. Bacterial isolation and identification were performed using culture methods and Analytical Profile Index (API 20E). Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was carried out using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Structured questionnaires were administered to slaughterhouse workers to assess knowledge of zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and biosafety practices. Results: The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths was 65.2% in cattle and 60.5% in humans. Eight helminth genera were identified in cattle, with Strongyloides papillosus (26.7%) showing the highest prevalence, followed by Trichostrongylus axei (23.2%) and Fasciola hepatica (18.2%). In humans, six helminth genera were identified, with Strongyloides spp. showing the highest prevalence (39.9%). The prevalence of Escherichia coli was 9% in cattle and 75% in adult workers, while co-infection rates were 8% and 20%, respectively. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed high resistance to imipenem (82%), amoxiclav (100%), and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (100%), whereas ofloxacin and tetracycline showed complete susceptibility (100%). Although 95% of slaughterhouse workers demonstrated good knowledge of zoonotic diseases, only 25% had adequate knowledge of AMR and appropriate biosafety practices. Conclusion: A high prevalence of zoonotic helminths and multidrug-resistant E. coli was observed among cattle and slaughterhouse workers in Buea Sub Division, indicating the need for improved biosafety practices and antimicrobial stewardship.