Escherichia coli in bacterial co-infections and antimicrobial resistance in poultry farms
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52673/18570461.26.2-81.15Keywords:
mixed infections, E. coli, Diplococcus spp., Enterobacter spp., Clostridium spp., Candida spp., Klebsiella sppAbstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate the incidence and characteristics of bacterial and fungal infections in poultry from commercial farms. In chicks aged 1-45 days, mixed infections were identified, primarily caused by E. coli in association with Diplococcus spp., Enterobacter spp., and Clostridium spp. In adult hens, pathogens such as E. coli and Klebsiella spp. were isolated. The most frequent microbial association was between E. coli and Diplococcus spp., with an incidence of 35.29% and a mortality rate ranging from 2.3% to 3.9%. Mixed infections were also observed in which E. coli was associated with Enterobacter spp. (19.63%), Clostridium spp. (9.8%), and Klebsiella spp. (13.72%). Candida spp. was recorded as a monoinfection, with a morbidity of 11.76% and a low mortality rate (0.02%). Microbiological analysis of eggs and washings from incubators revealed contamination with E. coli, fungi, and other microorganisms, highlighting the need to improve hygiene measures in poultry units. Therapeutic efficacy, assessed through antimicrobial susceptibility testing, demonstrated superior activity for the combination of enrofloxacin and tilmicosin phosphate, which produced the largest zones of inhibition (18-34 mm). The obtained results emphasize the importance of implementing strict measures to reduce antimicrobial resistance through rational use of antibiotics based on antibiograms and through strengthening biosecurity measures in poultry farms.
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