Phenotypic Characterization of Antibiotic Resistance in <i>Escherichia coli</i> Strains Isolated from Bovine Faeces in the District of Abidjan

Meat of bovine origin is one of the main vectors for the transmission of Escherichia coli to human consumers. This pathogen can cause serious human illness. Objective: The objective of this study was to characterize the resistance phenotype of Escherichia coli isolates isolated from bovine dung in the Abidjan district. Methods: A total of 336 cattle dung samples were analyzed and 23.80% (80/336) were positive for Escherichia coli. Results: The most common phenotypic resistances detected were 42.9% for nalidixic acid, 33.3% for amoxicillin, 30% for amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, 25% for enrofloxacin, 20% respectively for cefepime and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. However, no resistance was observed to ticarcillin, ceftazidime, gentamicin and amikacin. In total, 70% (56/80) of isolates were resistant to at least three (3) antibiotic families, and 20% (16/80) were resistant to at least four (4) families. These results suggest that Escherichia coli isolates from bovine faeces are significantly diverse in terms of antibiotic resistance. Conclusion: the gastrointestinal microflora of cattle could be an important reservoir of various determinants of antimicrobial resistance, which is potentially dangerous for public health.