Abstract
<jats:p>The aim of the study is to assess the level of antibiotic resistance in E. coli strains isolated from various livestock facilities in the northern region of Kazakhstan, as well as to identify the epidemiological characteristics of antibiotic resistance and determine potential risks for veterinary and public medicine. The objects of the study were 202 E. coli isolates obtained from various sample types: fresh milk, raw meat, swabs from technological equipment and surfaces of livestock buildings, as well as cattle feces. Seventeen antibiotics, covering the main classes of antimicrobial agents, were used. Discs with antibiotics were applied to the surface of Mueller-Hinton agar inoculated with a 24-hour culture. Incubation was carried out at a temperature of (35 ± 2) °C for 18–24 hours. The diameter of the inhibition zones was measured, the results were interpreted according to the EUCAST scale (current versions). The study results revealed a high level of resistance to ampicillin (65.5 %) and third-generation cephalosporins (up to 40 %), as well as moderate resistance to fluoroquinolones (ciprofloxacin – 24.3 %). Maximum susceptibility was established to carbapenems (ertapenem – 97.5 %), colistin (94.0 %), as well as aminoglycosides and glycylcyclines. A significant dependence of antibiotic resistance on sample type was observed, with the highest resistance rates in isolates obtained from swabs and dairy products. The data obtained confirm the need for the development and implementation of comprehensive antimicrobial surveillance strategies, the rational use of antibiotics in livestock production, and strengthened sanitary controls to minimize the risk of transmission of resistant pathogens through the production and consumption chains of animal products.</jats:p>