Isolation, Identification and Antibiotic Resistance Pattern of Campylobacter Species Isolated from Chickens and Environmental Samples from Slaughter Slabs in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

Campylobacter species are worldwide recognized as one of the major cause of foodborne gastroenteritis. This study determined the isolation and antimicrobial resistance patterns of Campylobacter species isolated from processed chicken and associated environmental samples collected from slaughter slabs in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. A total of 690 samples were collected biweekly over five months, comprising chicken caecal contents, carcass swabs, and environmental samples (cutting boards, knives, and workers’ hands). Structured questionnaires were used to assess KAP among slaughterhouse workers. Isolates were identified using culture methods and confirmed using biochemical test and antimicrobial resistance pattern of isolates were determined. Of the 690 samples, 28.4% (195/690) were presumptively positive for Campylobacter on modified Charcoal Cefoperazone Deoxycholate Agar (mCCDA). High levels of antimicrobial resistance were observed, with 100% of isolates resistant to tetracycline, erythromycin, and azithromycin. Resistance to chloramphenicol and gentamicin was 64% and 29%, respectively. All isolates exhibited multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) indices above 0.2, with four isolates reaching a MAR index of 1.00, indicating exposure to multiple antibiotics.