Detection and Isolation of Salmonella Organisms and Their Antimicrobial Resistance Pattern in Fresh Chicken Meat and Gizzard in Selected Slaughter Slabs in Maiduguri Metropolis

ABSTRACT Salmonella organisms remain one of the major foodborne pathogens of Public Health concern worldwide. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Maiduguri Metropolis Council (MMC) and Jere LGAs, with aim of detecting Salmonella organisms in fresh chicken meat and gizzard. A total of n=310 samples were collected (n= 155 each of meat and gizzard swab samples) from two (2) slaughter slabs in MMC (Abaganaram and Monday Markets) and one (1) slaughter slab (Tashan Bama) in Jere LGA. Samples were collected and immediately transported to the laboratory for culture and isolation, biochemical tests were conducted to differentiate the isolates and antimicrobial sensitivity test was performed using Kirby Bauer method. The findings of this study revealed a high prevalence rate (34.84%) of Salmonella organisms in fresh chicken meat and gizzard sold in Maiduguri Metropolis. The prevalence of Salmonella organisms in meat samples (56.48%) appeared higher compared to gizzard samples (43.52%). Several factors may contribute to the high prevalence of Salmonella contamination in meat samples, including poor handling and processing practices at critical control points. This also revealed a slight association (ꭓ2=1.34) between the presence of Salmonella species with the organ-type of the chicken sampled; however, there was no any statistically significant (p>0.05) association. The antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed a high level of resistance to commonly used antibiotics such as Ceporex, Ampicillin, and Streptomycin. This finding is consistent with previous studies conducted in Nigeria, which reported high levels of resistance to these antibiotics among Salmonella isolates. The study recommended for further molecular detection of resistant genes encoded in the isolates. Therefore, molecular typing of these isolates is also recommended for better understanding of the true molecular epidemiology of that resistant Salmonella organism isolated from fresh chicken meat and gizzard in Maiduguri with those collections in the gene bank. Due to high multi-drug resistance isolates found, it necessitates the recommendation for regular molecular surveillance of foodborne pathogens in our local settings.