Multidrug-Resistant and Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Salmonella enterica Serotype Heidelberg Is Widespread in a Poultry Processing Facility in Southern Brazil

This study was conducted to characterize the distribution of Salmonella isolates in a poultry processing facility and to identify their antibiotic resistance profiles. Salmonella enterica was detected in 146 samples (66.7%), and 125 isolates were identified as Salmonella Heidelberg (n = 123), Salmonella Abony (n = 1), and Salmonella O:4,5 (n = 1). Salmonella Heidelberg isolates were subjected to XbaI macrorestriction analysis and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. The 66 pulsotypes obtained were grouped into four major clusters, indicating cross-contamination and persistence of this serotype in the processing facility. Selected S. enterica isolates were characterized by their antibiotic resistance, and most (n = 122, 97.6%) were multidrug resistant. Resistance to third-generation cephalosporins ceftazidime (84 isolates, 67.2%) and cefotaxime and ceftriaxone (91 isolates, 72.8%) was particularly prevalent. Production of extended-spectrum b-lactamases (ESBL) was identified in 24 isolates (19.2%), and ESBL-producing isolates were resistant to at least eight antibiotics. This study revealed the high prevalence of Salmonella Heidelberg in the poultry chain, providing insight into the ecology of this pathogen in this facility. The high prevalence of multidrug-resistant S. enterica is a concern due to the potential consequences for public health.

Automated summary

This study revealed the high prevalence of Salmonella Heidelberg in poultry processing facilities and the widespread multidrug resistance of S. enterica. Cross-contamination and persistence of Salmonella Heidelberg were observed, along with high resistance to cephalosporins and extended-spectrum b-lactamases production in some isolates. These findings highlight the potential public health consequences of multidrug-resistant Salmonella contamination in the poultry chain.