Diversity of Antimicrobial Resistance, and molecular characterization of Proteus spp. isolated from various sources

Abstract

Proteus infections are among the most common foodborne pathogens, responsible for zoonotic diseases and food poisoning in humans. Between March and September 2023, 320 samples were collected to isolate and characterize Proteus spp., including 200 chicken meat samples from local markets and 120 human urine samples from hospitals in Wasit Province, Iraq. Selective media, PCR, and Vitek 2 were used for bacterial identification, along with AST testing for 20 antibiotics. Results showed that P. mirabilis was isolated in 25% of human samples and 13% of chicken meat samples, while P. vulgaris appeared in 6.6% of human samples and 4% of poultry samples. P. mirabilis exhibited high resistance to common antibiotics, ranging from 83.3%-100% for macrolides (Azithromycin, Erythromycin), 66.7%-83.4% for penicillin (Ampicillin, Amoxicillin-Clavulanic Acid), and 66.7% for cephalosporins (Cephalexin, Cefepime, Cefotaxime). In contrast, P. vulgaris showed 100% resistance to Erythromycin and Tetracycline, followed by Trimethoprim, Ampicillin, and Rifampin at 83.4% resistance. Additionally, 66.7% of isolates were resistant to Cephalexin, Nitrofurantoin, and Cefotaxime. Overall, antibiotic resistance reached 40%, largely due to genetic mutations in multiple sites of the 16 S rRNA gene, highlighting the need for continuous monitoring and control measures to curb the spread of resistant strains.