Characterization of Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing and Efflux Pump of Multi-Drug Resistant Escherichia Coli Isolated from Raw Milk Samples

Abstract

Background: Escherichia coli is increasingly exhibiting antimicrobial resistance in communities and hospitals, triggering a growing public health emergency. Pakistan's high population density, poor sanitary infrastructure, and filthy food and water sources make it more prone to illness than other countries. In numerous circumstances, antibiotic overuse and abuse have caused bacterial resistance. Aim and objective: In this study, we have assessed the prevalence of multi-drug resistance and its associated demographic variables Escherichia coli was extracted from raw milk of cow in the Peshawar area of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province using the efflux mechanism. Methods: 80% (n=80) of 100 raw milk samples proved negative for culture growth, while 20% (n=20) tested positive. The study gathered 61% of its samples from rural locations (Ram Kishan near Bakhshi, Essa Khel Topchian) and 39% from urban areas. The sample came from Peshawar Military Farm landi Sarak 39% (n=22), Ram Kishan near Bakhshi complete 21%, and Essa Khel Topchian 40%. Results: Within our investigation, we evaluated the antibiotic resistance profiles of 20 isolates, finding notable diversity in their susceptibility. The isolates showed significant resistance to Meropenem (95%), Gentamicin (95%), and Ciprofloxacin (80%), but seemed to be most susceptible to Ampicillin (95%) and Amoxicillin (90%). Resistance of moderate intensity was detected for Ceftazidime (35%), Cefoxitin (30%), and Tetracycline (30%). Conclusion: These findings highlight the essential need for antibiotic stewardship, particularly for commonly used antibiotics, to combat resistance. Eight isolates were resistant (R) to one or more antibiotics in the double disk synergy test (DDST), suggesting they generated Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase.