ABSTRACT

A cross-sectional study on prevalence and antibiotic susceptibility of E. coli isolated from raw meat samples was conducted in Kwata and Amansea abattoirs. A total of 24 meat samples collected from two abattoirs were cultured for detection of E. coli. Biochemical test was carried out on the isolated pure colonies, which were then tested for antimicrobial susceptibility. Comparison on the prevalence of the bacteria was made in relation to source (Kwata and Amansea abattoirs) and site (neck region, fore limb, hind limbs and lower back areas) of meat sample collection. The investigation revealed a 70.83% overall prevalence of E. coli in the meat samples. The neck region was found to be the highly contaminated site followed by lower back area, Fore limbs and Hind limbs, respectively. All the E. coli isolates were found susceptible to Augumentin, Ciprofloxacin, Gentamicin, Septrin and Ampicillin. This study evidenced a considerable presence of E. coli in cattle meat slaughtered in abattoirs in Awka city probably due to the poor sanitary conditions during processing. It also demonstrated the sensitivity of most E.coli isolates to antibiotics which may be of potential public health importance.