Vol. 9, Special Issue 1 (2024)

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) remains a persistent concern in the One Health framework. Inappropriate antibiotic use has given rise to drug-resistant pathogens, challenging the treatment of infections. This resistance occurs when microorganisms withstand the effects of drugs. Contributing factors include overuse, improper dosage, and inappropriate agricultural practices. Strategies to address this issue encompass promoting responsible drug use, surveillance, education, research, and fostering international collaboration. A total of 285 isolates were screened, comprising 53 E. coli and Shigella, 230 Salmonella enterica, 1 Yersinia, and 1 Enterobacter (Figure 1). Beta-lactamase genes, including blaEC, blaTEM-1, blaCARB, blaA, and blaATC-27, were identified among the isolates. BlaEC was most common in E. coli and Shigella, while blaCARB-2 and blaTEM-1 predominated in Salmonella enterica serovars, specifically (I 4,[5],12:i:-) and Typhimurium. BlaA was found in Yersinia enterocolitica, and blaACT-27 occurred in Enterobacter. Beta-lactamase genes were more frequently associated with the ESKAPE group of pathogens, such as E. coli and Enterobacter, than Salmonella enterica serovars. A total of 16 Salmonella enterica serovars were recorded, including Enteritidis, Cholerasuis, Typhimurium, Derby, Ball, Coeln, Agona, Infantis, Goldcoast, London, Indiana, Anatum, Pensacola, Sangalkam, I 14,[5],12:i:-, Kottbus, and Newport. The prevalence of beta lactamase genes and their frequency in wildlife highlights the risk of its adverse effects like treatment failure, global and local spread in wildlife. This also pose a threat to the endangered species. The absence of metalo beta lactamases is indicative of less use of carbapenems in wildlife.