Detection of the mgtC gene in multidrug-resistant Salmonella sp. based on isolation of chicken eggshell swabs from traditional Surabaya markets.

Background: The virulence of Salmonella sp. is increased by the presence of the mgtC gene, which allows the bacteria to survive in environments with low magnesium levels, such as inside macrophages. Salmonella sp. found on eggshells when they show resistance to three or more classes of antibiotics can be classified as multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria.

Aim: This study aimed to identify the presence of Salmonella sp. MDR and the mgtC gene in chicken eggshell swabs from traditional markets in Surabaya.

Methods: Swab samples were collected from 160 eggs (80 from layer chickens and 80 from free-range chickens) at 10 traditional markets in Surabaya, Indonesia. Isolation and identification were performed using culture media, including Salmonella Shigella Agar, Gram staining, Triple Sugar Iron Agar, Sulfide Indole Motility, Simmons Citrate Agar, Methyl Red and Voges Proskauer, and Urea Agar. Antibiotic sensitivity testing was performed using the disc diffusion method on Mueller-Hinton Agar. Molecular detection of the mgtC gene was performed using polymerase chain reaction.

Results: The results showed that 16.87% (27/160) of the samples were detected positive for Salmonella sp. All Salmonella sp. isolates (27) were resistant to Erythromycin (100%). Resistance was also found to Ampicillin (77.77%, 21/27), Tetracycline (29.62%, 8/27), and Ciprofloxacin (18.51%, 5/27). No resistance to chloramphenicol was observed. In addition, eight of the 27 isolates (29.62%) were classified as Salmonella sp. MDR. The Salmonella sp. MDR isolates also carried the mgtC gene at 87.5% (7/8).

Conclusion: These findings demonstrate the potential global public health threat posed by MDR Salmonella sp. with the mgtC gene, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and controlling antibiotic resistance in humans and animals.