First report of multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. in wildlife consumed as bushmeat in Cameroon.

INTRODUCTION

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a growing global threat to human health, food security, and animal welfare. Wild animals, often consumed as bushmeat, may serve as reservoirs of pathogenic and multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and antibiotic resistance profiles of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Salmonella spp. in wild animals intended for human consumption in Cameroon.

METHODOLOGY: Between September 2023 and December 2024, 427 fecal samples were collected from twelve wild animal species, including mammals (41.0 %), birds (57.6 %), and reptiles (1.4 %). Isolation, identification, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing of E. coli and Salmonella were performed following standard protocols. Data analysis was conducted using R software.

RESULTS

Overall, 66.1 % of samples were positive for at least one bacterium. E. coli was detected in 66.1 % of samples, while Salmonella spp. was present in 27.2 %. All isolates exhibited resistance to at least one antibiotic, with 21.1 % classified as MDR. Notably, resistance was observed against critically important antibiotic classes, including beta-lactams, and 26 % of E. coli and 9 % of Salmonella isolates were multidrug-resistant.

CONCLUSION

The high prevalence of resistant and MDR E. coli and Salmonella in wild animals consumed as bushmeat underscores a substantial public health risk. These findings highlight the need for enhanced AMR surveillance, promotion of safer bushmeat consumption practices, and prudent antibiotic stewardship in livestock and agricultural settings. Integrating these measures within a One Health framework is essential to mitigate zoonotic transmission and safeguard human and environmental health in Cameroon.