Distribution characteristics of integrons and correlation analysis of antibiotic resistance in Aeromonas hydrophila

Our study reveals that class 1 integrons are the predominant type carried by <i>Aeromonas hydrophila</i> clinical isolates in our hospital. The aminoglycoside resistance gene <i>aadA1</i> and the chloramphenicol resistance gene <i>catB8</i>, identified within the variable regions of these integrons, are directly associated with corresponding antibiotic resistance phenotypes. Notably, integron-positive strains displayed high clonal similarity, with the dominant ERIC genotype C indicating potential clonal dissemination within the hospital setting. These findings suggest that integrons, along with their carried resistance gene cassettes, could serve as useful molecular markers for epidemiological surveillance of multidrug-resistant <i>Aeromonas hydrophila</i>. Implementing routine screening for integrons and associated resistance genes in high-risk wards, such as hepatobiliary surgery, could enhance targeted infection control measures and help prevent the spread of resistant clones, including those of emerging pathogens like <i>A. hydrophila</i>.