The epidemiology of ceftriaxone and cotrimoxazole-resistant Escherichia coli from humans, poultry, and their environment in central Malawi: A cross-sectional study.

ABSTRACT: The poultry industry represents an important reservoir for clinical antibiotic resistance, especially in low- and middle-income-countries where food security pressures drive intensified farming and antibiotic use. However, evidence linking poultry production to public health risks remains limited in settings such as Malawi. This study examined Escherichia coli resistance to ceftriaxone and cotrimoxazole, two antibiotics with distinct stewardship priorities. We conducted a cross-sectional study between July and September 2022 in Malawi's Central region, targeting poultry farms. Our mixed-methods design combined microbiological sampling from farm workers, poultry, and effluent water with a structured questionnaire on antibiotic use. E. coli isolates underwent antimicrobial susceptibility tes

SUBMITTER: Chitatanga R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12854471 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature