Multidrug resistance-encoding gene in Citrobacter freundii isolated from healthy laying chicken in Blitar District, Indonesia

Background and Aim: The increasing prevalence of resistance (MDR) Enterobacteriaceae in Indonesia has caused concern regarding human health. Citrobacter freundii reportedly targets the gastrointestinal tract animals is a common cause foodborne diseases associated with diarrhea, peritonitis, meningitis, brain abscess, bacteremia, urinary infection. This study aimed to estimate MDR presence Class 1 integron-encoding genes C. isolates obtained from cloacal swabs healthy laying chickens Blitar district, Indonesia. Materials Methods: One hundred sixty-five swab samples were collected 33 farms over period 4 months. Standard microbiological techniques such as bacterial culture MacConkey agar, Simmons citrate triple sugar iron agar biochemical tests indole test performed identify isolates. antibiotic sensitivity patterns determined by disk diffusion method, MDR-encoding (Class integron) detected polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results: Out 165 samples, 7 (4.24%) positive for freundii. was highly resistant erythromycin (71.43%) moderately streptomycin, tetracycline, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (all 42.86%); however, it showed low ampicillin (28.57%). All found exhibit MDR. Only (14.29%) seven harbored integron gene. revealed that have isolated Blitar, Conclusion: Poultry can play role transmission humans due Enterobacteriaceae, including intestines.