Purpose: This study investigates the prevalence, antibiotics sensitivity profile and biofilm forming ability of E.coli O157:H7from water sources and urine samples of abattoir workers from the Bodija municipal abattoir, Ibadan, Nigeria for the dry and wet seasons.
Methods: Isolation of E.coli O157:H7 was made from eighty (80) water samples from wells and bore holes located within the abattoir and one hundred thirty-six urine samples from abattoir worker using conventional methods. Biofilms of E.coli O157:H7 were developed in Tryptose soy broth and Tryptose soy broth + 2% glucose and biofilm quantification was done using crystal violet binding assay. Disc diffusion method was used to determine the antibiotics sensitivity profile of the selected strains. Fifty questionnaires were administered to assess the knowledge and frequency of antibiotic usage among abattoir workers.
Results: The prevalence of E.coli O157:H7 in water and urine are 1.25% and 5.88%, respectively. This prevalence was higher in the wet season compared to the dry season. Biofilm increased with incubation time until the 48 h. At 96 and 144 h, the biofilm mass reduced for all strains. This study revealed that 2% glucose had a significant effect on biofilm development at 48 h incubation. Most strains showed multidrug resistance. The isolates showed high sensitivity to Ofloxacin and Gentamicin but resistance to Cotrimoxazole, Augmentin and Amoxicillin. The questionnaire survey revealed that 94% of respondents abusively use antibiotics every day.
Significance: The production of biofilm and increasing resistance by these isolates to antibiotics presents a major risk and challenge in both human and animal medicine. Control of abusive usage by proper education of abattoir workers is strongly recommended.