Prevalence and drug-resistance patterns of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and extended-spectrum β-lactamase producing Enterobacteriaceae among raw vegetables

BackgroundAntimicrobial resistance is a top global public health and development threat. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria in food items, such as vegetables, have become a public health issue. Contamination of vegetables sold in various places can cause foodborne illnesses in many countries, including Ethiopia, and affect the health of consumers. Many bacterial pathogens are now resistant to multiple drugs. In recent years, several multi-drug resistant bacterial pathogens with epidemiological significance have emerged, such as MRSA and ESBL-PE. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in Aroge Gebeya Market, Hawassa City, from March to May 2024. Six types of raw vegetables with a total of 216 (6x36) were collected. Identification of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and extended-spectrum {beta}-lactamase producing Enterobacteriaceae and drug resistance patterns were done by using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Data on sociodemographic variables and hygiene practices were collected using semi-structured questionnaires on Kobo Toolbox Software and imported to SPSS Software Version 29.0.1 for analysis. ResultsThe overall prevalence of MRSA and/or ESBL-PE among vegetables was 18.1% (39/216). Among the isolates, 56.9% (91/160) were MDR, 29.2% (14/48) were MRSA, and 24.1% (27/112) were ESBL producers. The most frequently detected isolates were S. aureus 30.0% (48/160), Enterobacter spp. 15.6% (25/160), Citrobacter spp. 15.0% (24/160), E. coli 10.6% (17/160), Salmonella spp. 10.0% (16/160) and Klebsiella spp. 8.1% (13/160). The highest frequency of bacterial isolates was found in tomatoes 21.9% (35/160), kale 18.1% (29/160), and lettuce 16.9% (27/160). Vegetables bought from vendors with untrimmed nails were significantly more likely to have a higher prevalence of MRSA and/or ESBL-PE compared to those from vendors with trimmed nails (AOR = 4.123; 95% CI: 1.681 - 10.109, p = 0.002). ConclusionThis study found that vegetables were notable for the presence of MDR bacteria, specifically ESBL-PE and MRSA. Consequently, we strongly recommend that local health authorities develop and implement effective control strategies to mitigate these resistant bacteria among vegetables.