Multidrug-Resistant Escherichia coli in Commercial Grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus) Farms: Prevalence and Association with Bio-Preservation Practices in Togo

Abstract

Introduction: In Togo, limited data exist on the implementation of biosecurity and bio-preservation practices in animal production systems, particularly in grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus) farming. This study aimed to describe the level of intestinal microbiota contamination by multidrug-resistant E. coli strains in grasscutters and to explore farming practices—especially those related to bio-preservation that may influence the emergence or dissemination of multidrug resistance profiles. Aim: The study aims to describe the level of intestinal microbiota contamination by multidrug-resistant E. coli strains in grasscutters and to explore farming practices, especially those related to bio-preservation, in relation to the emergence or dissemination of these multidrug resistance profiles. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on four grasscutter farms located in the south-western part of the Plateaux Region (Togo). Bio-preservation practices were assessed using an observation checklist. Fresh 113 faecal samples were collected in August 2020 and subjected to microbiological analyses. 106 E. coli Strains were isolated. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the Mueller-Hinton agar disk diffusion method on the isolated E. coli strains. Results: The average level of bio-preservation control was 62.5%, with variations across sites. Antibiotic susceptibility tests performed on 75% of isolates revealed high resistance frequencies to tetracycline, amoxicillin, trimethoprim, and piperacillin. No extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing strains were detected; however, 3.8% exhibited high-level penicillinase activity and 2.5% showed low-level cephalosporinase activity. Multidrug resistance was observed in 26.3% of isolates, and 56.2% were resistant to at least one antibiotic. Conclusion: These findings highlight the need for improved bio-preservation and surveillance to mitigate AMR risks in grasscutter farming. Further studies covering additional regions and incorporating molecular analyses are needed to strengthen prevention and surveillance strategies within a One Health approach.