Prevalence and Antibiotic Resistance of Acinetobacter baumannii in Agricultural Settings in Rural Ghana : Implications for Antimicrobial Stewardship

Abstract

Introduction: Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) is an opportunistic pathogen commonly found in healthcare settings, posing a significant concern due to its association with hospital-acquired infections and antibiotic resistance. Despite its prevalence in the hospital environment, there is limited knowledge about the occurrence and antimicrobial resistance of A. baumannii in poultry and livestock animals. This study aimed to analyse the antimicrobial profile and resistance patterns of A. baumannii in these settings and raw meat samples. The research is significant for developing strategies for the management of antimicrobial resistance in rural farming communities in Ghana and addressing the global challenge of antimicrobial resistance. The findings will inform policies and practices related to antimicrobial use in the agricultural sector, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Materials and Methods: This study investigated the presence and antimicrobial resistance of A. baumannii in poultry, livestock, and raw meat in rural Ghana. Samples were collected from various sources, including farms, markets, shops, and abattoirs. The organisms were isolated and identified by using specific laboratory procedures. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted following established guidelines. Data analysis was performed using MS Excel, and a map of the sample sites was created using QGIS software. Results: A. baumannii was found in 7.77% of 1,287 stool samples, with the highest occurrence in commercial farm chickens. Antibiotic susceptibility testing showed that most isolates were susceptible to most of the antibiotics that were tested. However, a few numbers of isolates demonstrated resistance to cotrimoxazole and tetracycline. On the other hand, A. baumannii was confirmed in 8.46% of 260 meat samples, predominantly in chicken samples from cold stores. Antibiotic susceptibility was generally high but with a small proportion of isolates showing resistance. No multiple drug resistance (MDR) A. baumannii isolates were detected, but cultured unidentified organisms exhibited multiple drug resistance (MDR) and multidrug resistance. Discussion: The study found that A. baumannii was prevalent in stool and meat samples, with higher rates during specific months and the rainy season, and contamination in chicken and beef, highlighting the need for continuous surveillance and judicious antibiotic use. Conclusion: The presence of A. baumannii in both stool and meat samples underscores the possibility of food animals serving as reservoirs, emphasizing the importance of worldwide initiatives to monitor and tackle antibiotic resistance in the food chain.