Prevalence and Antibiotic Susceptibility of Bacteria from the Oral Cavity of Echis carinatus sochurekis

Abstract

Background: Echis carinatus sochureki, known as the saw-scaled viper, is a venomous viper found mainly in the Middle East, including Iraq. The snake's oral cavity contains different bacterial species that may harm both the snake and its prey. Objectives: This study aimed to analyse the prevalence and antibiotic susceptibility of bacteria from the oral cavity of Echis carinatus sochurekis in Iraq. Method: In the current study, seven oral swabs were collected from local Iraqi-breed snakes of the species Echis carinatus sochureki, kept by a local owner in Baghdad in January 2025. Bacterial isolation was performed using selective and enriched culture media in anaerobic conditions. Identification was performed using Gram staining, colony morphology, and standard biochemical tests. Additional identification and antibiotic sensitivity testing were conducted using the VITEK system. Results: Nine isolates showed a diverse bacterial population, with Staphylococcus epidermidis identified as the most prevalent strain at 35%. S. aureus and S. saprophyticus followed with prevalence rates of 25% and 20%, respectively, while E. faecalis (15%) and S. viridians (5%) were the least common isolates. The special colony morphology and hemolysis were observed (alpha 60%, beta 20%, gamma 20%). All isolates exhibited resistance to at least one antibiotic. 33% revealed multidrug resistance observed in several of the strains (≥3 agents); only levofloxacin was the most effective against all isolates. Conclusion: The oral cavity of Echis carinatus sochureki harbours a diverse community of anaerobic and facultative anaerobic bacteria, including potentially pathogenic and antibiotic-resistant species. These findings highlight the clinical importance of considering oral microbiota in the management of snakebite infections and support the need for targeted antimicrobial therapy.