Antibiotic resistant bacteria in rodents, birds and insects

Abstract

The aim of this study was to find out whether pests on the Utrecht University campus and environs were vectors for ESBL/AmpC-producing bacteria and/or methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Samples were collected on and around campus in educational buildings, an aviary, the university pig farm, botanical gardens, the university hospital, and community buildings. Samples were analysed for the presence of ESBL/ AmpC-producing Enterobacteriaceae and MRSA and for susceptibility to five antibiotics. Of the samples 5/78 (6.4%) were positive for ESBL E. coli and/or MRSA. All fly samples and bird samples originated on the farm. Antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed that one of the isolates from flies was confirmed ESBL-producing E. coli according to CLSM guidelines. In conclusion, it is possible that pests on the university farm could be a vector for ESBL- producing E. coli and MRSA.