Emergence of Multidrug-Resistant and Biofilm-Producing Staphylococcus aureus from Raw Poultry in Algeria: Implications for Public Health

<i>Staphylococcus aureus</i> is a common foodborne pathogen, posing significant concern due to the emergence of its multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains. The aim of this study was to assess the antibiotic resistance profiles in <i>S. aureus</i> isolated from raw poultry, the associated resistance genes, and their ability to form biofilms. <i>S. aureus</i> was isolated and identified using conventional microbiological methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility profiles were assessed using the disk diffusion method, and biofilm-forming ability was evaluated using the microtiter plate assay. The presence of antimicrobial resistance genes was determined by PCR. A total of 45 isolates were isolated. High resistance rates were observed against penicillin (88.9%), tetracycline (86.7%) and doxycycline (66.7%). Of the isolates, 71.1% were classified as multidrug-resistant (MDR) organisms, and 60% exhibited a multiple antibiotic resistance index greater than 0.2. PCR analysis revealed the presence of the resistance genes <i>blaZ</i> (86.7%), <i>mecA</i> (27.3%), <i>tet</i>(M) (46.2%), <i>tet</i>(K) (35.9%), <i>tet</i>(S) (59%), <i>erm</i>(B) (51.9%), and <i>erm</i>(C) (59.3%). A total of 44 isolates were biofilm producers: 46.7% were weak producers, 46.7% were moderate producers, and 4.4% were strong producers. These findings highlight a significant public health concern, emphasizing the need for stringent hygiene practices and continuous monitoring to limit the spread of resistant pathogens through the food chain.