Antibiotic Resistant Profile of Lactic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Swine and Poultry Faeces in Umuahia Metropolis

Aim: This study’s aim was to determine the antibiotics resistant profile of lactic acid bacteria isolated from poultry and swine faeces.

Study design: Faecal samples from swine and birds were randomly collected from livestock and poultry farms located in Umuahia metropolis, Abia State.

Place and duration of study: Department of microbiology, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, between January 2019 to August 2019.

Methodology: A total of 12 faecal samples, 6 each from swines and birds were examined for the presence of lactic acid bacteria using Deman Rogosa Sharpe agar supplemented with 0.3% CaCO3 (w/v). Isolates were identified based on their physiological and biochemical characteristics. Antibiotic susceptibility was carried out using disk diffusion method.

Results: Of the 12 faecal samples examined, all were positive for lactic acid bacteria, with counts ranging from 1.74 – 2.36 x 106 in swine and 1.52 – 2.08 x 106 in birds. Total of 14 strains that belong to three genera; Lactobacillus, Lactococcus and Streptococcus were isolated, genus Lactobacillus occurred highest 8(57.1%). The isolates showed multidrug resistance and exhibited high rate of resistance to Augmentin (100%), Ceftazidime (100%), Cefotaxime (92.9%), Erythromycin (85.7%), Ceftriaxone (71.4%) and Azithromycin (71.4%).

Conclusion: The antibiotic resistance pattern of the isolated lactic acid bacteria is a clear indication that most animal farmers are misusing antibiotics. Therefore, animal farmers should be advised on antibiotic application safety measures.