Identification and Antibiotics Sensitivity Test of Staphylococcus Aureus Isolated from Poultry Droppings in Ife-North Central

The rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria is a global health concern, impacting both human and veterinary medicine. Staphylococci, particularly Staphylococcus aureus, are notable pathogens in poultry, capable of causing a variety of infections and acting as reservoirs for antibiotic resistance genes. This study aims to identify Staphylococci species isolated from poultry droppings in Ife North Local Government Area and determine their antibiotic sensitivity profiles. A total of 100 poultry droppings samples were collected from multiple poultry farms and processed in the laboratory to isolate Staphylococci using a selective media Mannitol Salt Agar and further sub-cultured on Nutrient Agar to obtain pure culture of the isolates, other biochemical tests were carried out. Antibiotic sensitivity testing was performed using the disk diffusion method on a range of commonly used antibiotics. The results revealed a high prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus among the isolates, with significant occurrences of other Staphylococcus species. A considerable proportion of these isolates exhibited resistance to multiple antibiotics, including penicillin, tetracycline, oxacillin, cefoxitin and erythromycin. Notably, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains were also identified, highlighting the potential public health risk. This study underscores the urgent need for stringent antibiotic stewardship and biosecurity measures in poultry farming to mitigate the spread of antibiotic-resistant Staphylococci. The findings provide critical insights into the local epidemiology of Staphylococci in poultry, informing both veterinary practices and public health strategies in Ife North Local Government Area.