Veterinary Public Health

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A one health approach to investigating the occurrence and Antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of escherichia coli in Infants, animals, and the household environment in Bishoftu, ethiopia
(Addis Abeba University, 2025) Redeat Kassahun; Professor Bekele Megersa; Dr.Fanta Desissa
Pathogenic and antimicrobial-resistant E. coli remains a serious public health threat, particularly in household settings where humans and animals share space and access to clean water, hygiene, and sanitation facilities is limited. Data on the occurrence of pathogenic and antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) E. coli in infants, animals, and the environment within household settings in Bishoftu town is currently lacking. The objective of this study was to assess the occurrence and antimicrobial resistant profiles of E. coli and hygienic practices at One Health domain in infants, animals, and the environment in household setting in Bishoftu, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted from February 2, 2024 to April 26, 2025. Household-level data on access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene practices were collected through face-to-face interviews with infant caregivers. For microbiological analysis, four samples-one each from infants, soil, caregivers, and animals-were collected per household, totaling 288 samples from 72 households. Isolation and identification of E. coli were performed using standard techniques, including primary and secondary selective enrichment, selective plating, and molecular methods. Confirmation of E. coli was done using Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry, and conventional PCR was used to detect the intimin (eae) gene in positive isolates. Antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolates was assessed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Among the surveyed households, 61.1% did not treat their water, 63.9% used shared latrines, 81.9% lacked handwashing facilities near latrines, and 43.1% left animal feces unmanaged within the compound. Of the 288 samples tested, 268 (69 from infants, 66 from soil, 63 from caregivers, and 70 from animals) yielded positive cultures. From these, 152 presumptive E. coli isolates were identified, with 66 confirmed using MALDI-TOF. Based on the distribution of positive isolates per household, 33 samples were selected for further analysis using PCR and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. According to MALDI-TOF results, the highest detection rate of E. coli was found in animals (51.3%), followed by soil (40.5%), caregivers (44.4%), and infants (37.5%). Of the 33 isolates tested, only 7 (4 from infants, 1 from caregivers, and 2 from animals) were positive for the eae gene. A significant proportion of these isolates showed antimicrobial resistance, with the highest resistance observed in animals (55.6%), followed by infants (52.8%), caregivers (51.4%), and soil (37.5%). The highest resistance was recorded against amoxicillin (100%), tetracycline (78.8%), and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (72.7%). All isolates were susceptible to gentamicin. Multidrug resistance was detected in 42.4% of the isolates. In conclusion, the study demonstrates the occurrence and distribution of pathogenic and antimicrobial-resistant E. coli across the One Health domains. It also reveals critical sanitation gaps, including reliance on shared facilities and inadequate access to basic hygiene infrastructure, such as soap and water near latrines. These findings highlight the urgent need for integrated interventions to improve access to clean water, sanitation, hygiene, and animal management, using a One Health approach.
A Retrospective Study Of Dogs Rabies, Vaccination Coverage And Challenges In Addis Ababa
(Addis Abeba University, 2024) Kirubel Befekadu; Dr. Biruhtesfa Asrade; Dr. Zerihun Assefa
A retrospective and cross-sectional study about the incidence of rabies and the coverage and barriers of rabies vaccination was conducted in Addis Ababa city from October 2023 to April 2024. The objective of this study was to assess the general condition of rabies and its vaccination coverage within Addis Ababa. Data was collected through surveys of dog owners and interviews with veterinarians in various sub-cities across Addis Ababa. Additionally, retrospective analysis of dog bite records from the Ethiopian Public Health Institute and canine vaccination data (2020- 2023) from the Farmers and Urban Agriculture Development Commission were employed. Out of the 206 dog owners who participated in the survey, the majority (66.5%) indicated that their dogs were fully vaccinated. Some of the significant barriers for dog vaccination acknowledged by respondents were poor knowledge of rabies, unrestricted dog movement, and lack of mass vaccination campaign. Interviewed veterinary professionals identified lack of equipment, coordination with other agencies and inadequate long-term planning as the major barriers for vaccination coverage. In Addis Ababa, 3,123 individuals were reported to be bitten by a suspected dog from 2019 to 2023 and overall incidence rate was found to be 12.45. In the same period 92.7% of the victims were reported to have received post-exposure prophylaxis. According to records from the Farmers and Urban Agriculture Development Commission, a total of 96,319 dogs received rabies vaccination in Addis Ababa during the period spanning from 2020 to 2023. In the present study, there was a significant increase in the number of human cases of dog bites receiving post-exposure anti-rabies vaccination. Additionally, this research revealed a lack of awareness regarding rabies vaccination, particularly notable in sub-cities like Arada and Lemi Kura. This study recommends for the scaling-up of periodic mass vaccination campaigns for dogs, coupled with one health initiatives and targeted restrictions on canine movement, as a comprehensive strategy for rabies control.
AEROBIC BACTERIAL ISOLATES, INCIDENCE RATE AND THE ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS OF HEIFER MASTITIS IN AND AROUND DEBRE-LIBANOS WOREDA, NORTH SHOWA, OROMIA, ETHIOPIA
(2014-06) DANIEL, FISSEHA; Dr. Biruk Tesfaye, Dr. Tesfaye Sisay
Mastitis is a major disease in dairy cattle of Ethiopia. The objectives of this study were to identify aerobic bacterial pathogens, estimate the incidence of mastitis, identify the associated risk factors and assess drug resistance patterns of bacterial isolates in heifers mastitis. The study was conducted for eight months and a total of 124 quarters were examined to detect clinical mastitis and subclinical mastitis by udder physical examinations and the California mastitis test (CMT) respectively. California mastitis test positive milk samples were used to isolate and identify bacteria. The study revealed that the incidence rate of mastitis per gland month at risk was 39.45%. The incidence of mastitis was found to be affected by management system, udder hygiene, dry cow therapy and lactation stage (p < 0.05). The percentage of CMT positive glands that remained positive after a month and the percentage of CMT negative glands that remained negative after a month were 57.14% and 79.91% respectively. Staphylococcus aureus (25.11%), Coagulase negative staphylococci (CNS) [14.70%] and Streptococcus species (14.70%) were the predominant bacteria. In the present study, out of eight in vitro antimicrobials used; gentamycine (0%), kenamycin (0%), ampicillin (62%), penicillin G (89%), chloramphinicol (8%), Cefoxitin (16%), tetracycline (84%) and trimethoprim (8%), showed resistance to heifer mastitis pathogens. Gentamycine and chloramphinicol were the most effective antibiotics among all the tested ones. Finally due to the high resistance level detected in the study, it was believed that it is necessary to set up antimicrobial resistance surveillance programmes in the country. It was also concluded that the prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus warrants serious attention, the application of antibacterial agents earlier before calving may help to reduce the incidence of mastitis during the early lactation period.
An In-Depth Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practices about Transmission of Zoonoses, Food Safety, Antimicrobial Resistance and the Detection of E. coli O 157:H7 along the Meat Value Chain in Ethiopia: One Health approach
(Addis Ababa University, 2023) Fufa Abunna; Prof. Bekele Megersa
Food-borne diseases associated with zoonotic pathogens can be transmitted to humans primarily, but not exclusively through animal source foods. Antimicrobial resistance in the food chain is also currently a subject of a major concern globally. The excessive use or rather misuse of antimicrobials coupled with a poor hygiene in the food production chain has led to a rise of drug resistant bacteria, commonly transmitted through food chain. A cross-sectional survey was undertaken by using a structured pretested questionnaire to investigate the level of knowledge, attitude and practices towards the transmission of Zoonoses among farmers in Ada‘a district, food safety among meat handlers of Bishoftu city and antimicrobial use (AMU) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among 10 public University students in Ethiopia. Another study was also carried out to detect E. coli O157: H7 along the meat value chain in abattoirs and retail meat shops and of Bishoftu city and to assess the susceptibility profile of the isolates against 13 antibiotics using a standard disk diffusion method. Logistic regression was used to assess the associations between socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Accordingly, farmers with secondary school or above education background (OR= 6.8, CI=2.4 - 18.0, p <0.05), aged between 41 and 50 years (OR=3.0, 95% CI: 1.2–7.2, p<0.05), and good knowledge (OR=2.1, CI=1.3 - 3.5, p <0.05), and positive attitude (OR=7.8, CI=4.7 - 12.9, p <0.01) had better practices that reduce the risk of exposure to zoonotic infections than their counterparts. Most meat handlers had a good knowledge level, a positive attitude and poor food safety practices. In multivariable models, good knowledge was significantly (p<0.05) associated with older age; positive attitudes were associated with lower educational attainment and good knowledge; and good practices were associated with working experience in an abattoir and having received training on food safety. Students' birthplace was found to be significantly (p <0.01) associated with knowledge of students on AMU and AMR. Students with good knowledge had 3.9 times more positive attitudes than those with poor knowledge (OR = 3.9, CI = 3.0 -5.2, p < 0.01). Students from Veterinary medicine had 1.6 times better attitude than students from Helath Science and Non-Helath Science (OR = 1.6, CI=1.2- 2.1, p < 0.05). The prevalence of E. coli O157:H7 was found to be 3.6%. There was a significant difference in the occurrences of the pathogen among the sources of samples (p<0.05). The antimicrobial susceptibility test revealed that the isolates were found to be resistant to three commonly used drugs, tetracycline (100%), erythromycin (92.8%), and ampicillin (64.3%). However, all isolates were susceptible to azithromycin, cefotaxime, and chloramphenicol. However, 85.8% of the isolates were found to be resistant to three or more classes of antimicrobials. In conclusion, this study revealed knowledge gaps, a low level of the desired attitude, and high-risk behavioral practices among farmers about the transmsioon of Zoonoses. The study revealed that there is an inadequate food safety practice among meat handlers; and E. coli O157:H7 was detected in abattoirs and butcher shops. Furtheromeore, there were critical gaps of knowledge, attitudes and practices among University students about antimicrobial usage and antimicrobial resistance. Therefore, the need for awareness creation about zoonotic disease transmission among farmers, regular hands-on training and enforcement of general and personal hygiene among meat handlers is recommended. Moreover, interventions to raise awareness about AMU and AMR should also target students majoring in fields other than health sciences.
Anthelmintic utilization practices in Ada’a district and in vitro anthelmintics efficacy study against Haemonchus.contortus and Trichostrongylus.columbriformis in Oromia, Ethiopia
(2020-06) Gebeyehu Alkadir; Dr. Fufa Dawo
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is an infectious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals and it remains an economically important disease globally. It has become the number one livestock disease problem in Ethiopia causing cattle and cattle products export restriction. Antigen and gene detections of FMDV from outbreak cases in Borena zone of Oromia region were conducted using a cross-sectional study design. Purposive sampling was used in three kebeles: Arbore, Buyo and Dasogore, of Gomole district of the zone where outbreak had occurred. Clinical examination was performed on FMD suspected cattle and epithelial and swab sample was collected from representative animals. A total of 29 samples were collected and tested by real time RT-PCR for gene detection and sandwich ELISA for antigen typing. The rRT-PCR test result showed that 41.38% (12/29) sample were positive for FMDV. 10 rRT-PCR positive samples were subjected to antigen detection ELISA for serotyping and four serotypes of FMDV were detected; 3(60%) were serotype O, 1(20%) was mixed infection (serotype A and O) and 1(20%) was also mixed infection (SAT1 and SAT2). In addition, all the collected samples were subjected to virus isolation using baby hamster kidney day 21 (BHK-21) cells and 24.14% (7/29) showed cytopathic effect. Based on the evidence from antigen and molecular detections, four serotypes (A, O, SAT1, and SAT2) of FMD virus were circulating in the area causing production losses and mortality. Therefore, regular monitoring of the circulating virus and serotyping should be implemented as a base for selection of matching vaccine to institute effective control strategy in the area.
Antibiogram study of Salmonella and Escherichia coli isolates and assessment of KAP of poultry producers in conventional poultry farms in Hossana town, central Ethiopia
(Addis Abeba University, 2024) Habtamu Endale; Debela Abdeta; Mesfin Mathewos; Saliman Aliye; Adane Haile
Antimicrobial resistance is a serious health threat to creatures that depend on antimicrobials for the prevention and relief of infections. Foodborne Salmonella and Esherchia coli O157:H7 are critical causes of antimicrobial resistance associated morbidity and mortality. Fast growing poultry production along with antimicrobial misuse is a critical hotspot for the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance. A cross-sectional study aimed at investigating the antimicrobial resistance pattern of Salmonella and E. coli O157:H7 by disc diffusion method and assessment of KAP of poultry producers was executed in conventional poultry farms in Hossana Town, Central Ethiopia from October 2023 to May 2024. Up on bacteriological, biochemical and serological tests, 27 Salmonella and 20 E. coli were isolated and identified from a total of 228 cloacal swabs and postmortem samples. In disc diffusion test, all Salmonella and E. coli isolates were resistant to tested antimicrobial agents. Salmonella was resistant to ampicillin (100%), sulfamethoxazole and cefoxitin (85.1%), tetracycline (77.8%), trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (74.1%), amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (66.6%), ceftriaxone and streptomycin (55.6%), ciprofloxacin (51.9%), ampicillin/sulbactam (48.1%), trimethoprim (44.4%) and cefotaxime (40.7%). It showed high susceptibility to meropenem (81.48 %), gentamicin (66.67%), chloramphenicol (81.48%) and azithromycin (81.48%). E. coli O157:H7 was resistant to ampicillin (100%), cefotaxime and tetracycline (90.00%), cefoxitin and trimethoprim (70.00%), sulfamethoxazole (65.00%), amoxicillin clavulanic acid and ceftriaxone (55.0%) and ampicillin/sulbactam (50.00%). It was highly susceptible to azithromycin 90.00%, gentamicin (75.00%), chloramphenicol (60.00%), ciprofloxacin (55.00%) and meropenem (50.00%). All Salmonella and 80.00% of E. coli exhibited MDR. A lower portion, 22.20%, 19.44% and 25.00% of the poultry producers have good knowledge, attitude and practice on AMU and AMR, respectively. Poultry farms in the study site were found crucial hotspots for AMR Salmonella and E. coli and the low KAP levels of the poultry producers further exacerbate antimicrobial misuse and AMR spread. Monitoring antimicrobial dispensing, awareness of stakeholders on AMR prevention, and improving poultry producers' KAP on antimicrobial use and resistance are paramount to tackling this global problem.
Antibiotic Use and Antibiotic Resistance of Salmonella Species in Different Poultry Farms in Selected Districts of East Shewa Zone, Oromia Regional State, Central Ethiopia
(2021-06) Mezene, Woyessa; Prof. Gezahegn Mamo, Dr Balako Gumi
Antibiotics are limited resources. The more antibiotics are used today, the lesser it is likely they will still be effective in the future. Antibiotic resistance is considered one of the major threats to the world’s health as antibiotic resistant infections are increasing in humans, animals and the environment from time to time. Misuse and overuse of antibiotics is a primary contributor for the development of antibiotic resistance. The World Health Organization estimates that in the past decade the number of deaths attributed to antibiotic resistant bacteria exceeded the combined number of deaths due to influenza, human immunodeficiency virus and traffic accidents. Salmonella is the major cause of foodborne zoonotic bacterial infections worldwide and poultry is a major source of this zoonotic infection. Drug resistant Salmonella, such as quinolone and the higher generation cephalosporin resistant strains are regarded by World Health Organization as a critically important highest priority pathogen. Hence, a cross sectional study was conducted from September, 2017 to January, 2021 to determine the prevalence and antibiotic resistance of Salmonella species isolated from poultry and to evaluate a prudent use of antibiotics in intensive and semi-intensive commercial and backyard poultry farms in a selected districts (Ada’a, Lome, Akaki and Adama) of East Shewa zone of Oromia regional state, central Ethiopia. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select districts, peasant association and poultry farms. A total of 780 samples (500 chicken fecal, 153 egg, 100 chicken meat and 27 hand swab from poultry farm workers) were collected for Salmonella isolation and identification. Three hundred eighty eight individuals (n=388) were included in the study for the assessment of prudent use of antibiotics using structured questionnaire surveys. Based on microbial isolation and identification, the prevalence of Salmonella was 18.4% (95% CI=14.6-21.3) in the fecal samples, 14.8% (95% CI=1.5-28.5) in the hand swabs of poultry farm workers, 4.5% (95% CI=1.2-7.7) of eggs and 6% (95% CI=1.3-10.7) of meat samples with the overall prevalence of 13.97% (95% CI=11.6-16.4). xiv The highest prevalence of salmonella infection was observed in intensive production system (16.9%) and the lowest was found in backyard scavenging system (7.4%). One of the serious zoonotic strains (S. typhmurium) was recorded as a dominant serovar (69.7%) followed by S. Saintpaul (18.2%), S. Kentucky (6%), S. Newport (3%) and S. Anatum (3%) during this study. Risk factors such as poultry production system (P=0.006), production type (P=0.001), breed of chicken (P=0.005) and sample type (P=0.001) were significantly associated with Salmonella prevalence. A total of 37 Salmonella isolates were tested for their resistance against 15 antibiotics using disc diffusion method. Majority of the isolates (64.86%) were resistant or intermediately resistant to at least one antibiotic. The prevalence of resistance was high to chloramphenicol (62.2%), tetracycline (59.5%), ampicillin (54.1%) and streptomycin (51.4%). More than half of the isolates (56.8%) were multidrug resistant. The widespread occurrence of drug resistant Salmonella in poultry farms clearly demonstrated that, there is lack of awareness about prudent use of antibiotics, which highly contributed to the development of antibiotic resistant bacteria. All farms used one or more antibiotics and administered them mainly through feed/water. Tetracycline (100%) and sulfadiazine + trimethoprim (94.1%), fluroquinolones (41.5%) and cloxacillin + ampicillin (29.1%) were the most frequently used antibiotics. Antibiotics were used for disease treatment (100%), for disease prevention (56%) and /or for growth promotion (32.2%). Veterinary pharmacies (100%), veterinary clinic (51.0%), human pharmacies (26.8%) and illegal open market (16.2%) were the sources of antibiotics for the poultry producers. Sixty two percent of the farms obtained antibiotics through prescription from veterinarian and the rest were as self-prescription (32.2%) or as recommended by friends with prior experience (11.9%). Only 37.9% of the prescribed antibiotics administered by veterinary professional while majority of the farms administered antibiotics by themselves, based on the drug labels or as directed by a prescriber or pharmacist. Antibiotic stewardship programs such as removing the use of antibiotics for growth promotion, controlling illegal open market access as well as increasing veterinary and diagnostic services will help to mitigate antibiotic resistance. Measures to control of Salmonella infections in poultry are needed to reduce foodborne infections in humans.
ANTIGEN DETECTION AND MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION OF FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE VIRUS FROM OUTBREAK CASES IN ETHIOPIA
(2019-06) Shimels, Tikuye; Dr. Fufa Dawo , Dr. Daniel Gizaw
Foot and mouth disease is a highly contagious viral disease of cloven-hooved animals with significant economic impact. Outbreak investigation was conducted in Tigray, Oromia and SNNPs regional states of Ethiopia from September 2018 to May 2019. Purposive sampling was conducted in the respective districts and kebeles where the outbreaks occurred. A total of 215 animals were examined for the presence of typical clinical signs, 55 animals (25.58%) showed clinical signs and lesions suggestive of FMD. Totally 55 epithelial tissues and 8 oral swab samples were collected from suspected cases and submitted to the NAHDIC, Sebeta, Ethiopia for virus isolation, serotype identification and molecular characterization. Culture positive FMDV isolates were sent to WRLFMD, Pirbright, UK for sequencing. Of the 63 collected samples, 53 samples (84.13%) were positive for the FMDV genome by rRT-PCR with Ct values ranging from 15.06 to 31.19. Out of 34 cultured samples, 76.47% (n = 26) exhibited cytopathic effect in BHK-21 cell and the viruses were isolated. In the current study, serotypes of O (53.85%) and A (46.15%) were identified by antigen detection ELISA. Phylogenetic analysis of VP1 sequences from these viruses were used to determine the relationships from Ethiopia and other viruses retrieved from GenBank. Phylogenetic analysis of the VP1 nucleotide sequences showed that the type O viruses belonged to the EA-3 and EA-4 topotypes. Serotype A isolates belonged to genotype IV of African topotype. Amino acid substitutions were observed at critical residues of antigenic sites of serotype O at position 45 and 48 of VP1. Amino acid variations also identified in the main antigenic sites between the vaccine strain and field isolates of FMDV serotype A at positions 45, 140, 141, 143, 149 and 157. Similarly a total of 12.68% and 15.96% amino acid variations were observed in serotype O and A, respectively, in different sites of the VP1 gene with reference to the vaccine strain of the country. Therefore, regular investigation of FMD outbreaks to have more detailed information about the serotypes and topotypes circulating in Ethiopia is important for development of effective vaccine for the controlling of the disease.
ANTIMICROBIAL AND BACTERIA CULTIVATIVE VALUE OF MORINGA OLIFERA LEAF EXTRACT IN SELECTED ANIMAL PATHOGENS
(2014-06) ADDISU, DEMEKE; Dr. Biruk Tesfaye, Dr. Tesfaye Sisay; Dr.BedasoMamo
The research was conducted to evaluate the antibacterial effect of various forms of the leaf extracts (Moringa oleifera) on the growth of four selected gram-positive and negative bacteria and to evaluate the bacterial cultivated value of the extract.The antibacterial activity of leaf extracts of Moringa oleifera Lam., was determined in vitro, using disc diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) determined against selected animal pathogenic bacteria. M. oleiferaleave extract has been found to possess antimicrobial properties. In this work, four extraction solvents were used, i.e. aqueous extraction, fresh leave juice, ethanol and methanol. The methanol extract method of fresh and dried leaves displayed potential broad spectrum activity against all the tested organisms whereas the fresh leave juice extract which didn’t have any inhibitory effect were evaluated for its bacterial cultivated value and it was obtained that the power form of this extract was optimal environment for the growth of both gram positive and gram negative selected bacteria. The antimicrobial assay showed that the zones of inhibition produced using disc diffusion method ranged 3mm to 22mm for the four extraction methods with the highest value of 22mm obtained with ethanol extraction. The zones of inhibition for fresh ethanol extract was 4 to 22 mm, methanol extract from fresh leaf was 8 to 20 mm, and hot and cold water extract of fresh and dried leaves was 8 to 9,8 to 10,3 to 4 and 3 to 5 mm respectively. The MIC values were conducted for the different form of extracts against the tested bacterial pathogens and the highest concentration was recorded 25mg/ml for S.auerus while it was 30 mg/ml for S.fecalis. The bacterial cultivated value of M.oleifera powder extract of fresh leaf juice was determined by cultivating the four tested pathogens on the culture medium which was prepared from the plant extract with the proper concentration of agar powder in sterile distilled water and it was revealed that all the pathogens were successfully grown on it. The consequences of this investigation suggest that the extracts and juice of M.oleifera Lam. can be used to discover antibacterial agent for developing new pharmaceuticals to control animal pathogenic bacteria responsible for severe illness.
ANTIMICROBIAL USE AND SUSCEPTIBILITY PROFILE OF SELECTED ZOONOTIC PATHOGEN IN DAIRY FARM AND THEIR PUBLIC HEALTH IMPLICATION IN ADAMA AND MODJO, ETHIOPIA
(2019-06) Munera, Ahmednur; Dr. Fanta Desissa, Mr. Takele Beyene
A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2018 to May 2019 in Adama and Modjo. The main objectives of the study were to isolate and identify selected zoonotic pathogens from dairy cattle, to assess practical usage of drugs and to determine the in vitro antimicrobial resistance profiles of the isolates. Structured questionnaire was designed and administered to dairy farm owners and dairy food consumers to assess their consumption behavior and antibiotics usage. A total of 607 samples consisting of fresh cow milk, fecal sample, nasal swab, pooled milkers’ hand swabs, pooled floor swabs and tank milk samples were collected from 20 dairy farms. The samples were examined for the presence of selected zoonotic pathogens. Total of 396 samples were analyzed for S. aureus and 15.7% (62) were positive. Total of 396 samples were analyzed for E. coli and 7.6% (30) were positive. From 271of the total analyzed samples for Salmonella 4.8% (13) were positive. A total of 62 S. aureus, 30 E. coli and 13 Salmonella isolates were observed resistant to at least one or more antimicrobials tested. Penicillin, Methicillin and Sulphametoxazole trimethoprim were drugs to which a large proportion of isolated S. aureus were (100%to90%) highly resistant. From 30 tested E. coli show resistance to Tetracycline (83%) and Vancomycin (80%). The resistances of Salmonella were 69% to Nalidxic Acid and 54% to Vancomycin. Multiple drug resistance was detected in high (98.4%) for S. aureus, (56.7%) for E. coli and (53.9%) for Salmonella. High proportion of the current misuses of drugs and occurrence of resistance isolates to drugs in the dairy farms alerts concern for animal and public health as these drugs is used widely for treatment and prophylaxis in animals and humans.
Assessing Food Safety Management System: One Health Approach to improve Water Quality and Meat Hygiene in Abattoir in and around Addis Ababa Ethiopia
(Addis Abeba University, 2025) Seble Aweke; Prof. Bekele Megersa; Dr. Adey Feleke
Foodborne diseases pose a major global public health challenge, particularly in low-income countries like Ethiopia, where food safety in abattoirs is a serious concern. This study aimed to assess food safety management systems in six Central Ethiopian abattoirs using a cross-sectional design from October 2024 to April 2025. A total of 108 individuals were surveyed, and 120 samples were collected for microbial analysis focusing on water quality and meat hygiene within the One Health framework. Data were gathered through questionnaires, observations, and microbial testing. Microbial loads (Aerobic plate count, S. aureus, and E. coli) were quantified and identified using bioMérieux TEMPO®, and OmniLog ID System, respectively. Questionnaire observational survey findings revealed significant weaknesses in the implementation of Food Safety Management Systems (FSMS) while respondents generally reported adherence to hygienic protocols and the use of personal protective clothing. However, direct observation indicated a lack of consistent and proper application. Only about a one-third of facilities conducted internal hygiene audits. For water hygiene, while many facilities performed regular testing, less than half maintained proper records, indicating significant gaps in documentation and monitoring. Furthermore, observations highlighted inadequate infrastructure including poor ventilation, insufficient designated processing areas, and ineffective waste management systems. Additional study with sample analysis from these facilities showed an overall highest mean APC, S. aureus and E.coli in sampled water, equipment and in both equipment and hands, respectively. Further microbial analysis revealed significant differences in microbial loads across abattoirs and sample types (p<0.05), likely due to varying hygiene practices. The identification of pathogens such as E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella and S. aureus in this study across different abattoirs and samples including water implies a serious public health concern that needs rigorous interventions. In addition to poor microbial quality, the water used for cleaning in the abattoirs showed high concentration of some of the harmful toxic metals (Cd, Pb, and Mn) and salinity which can further compromise food safety thereby requiring urgent attention. The study highlights critical gaps in food safety management and hygiene practices, evidenced by high microbial loads and heavy metal concentrations, which calls for interventions measures through implementation of proper hygienic protocols and comprehensive personnel training to safeguard the public health
Assessment of Bacteriological Quality of Fish and Fish Products and Knowledge Attitude and Practice of Fish Handlers in Batu and Koka, Oromia, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2023) Mikias Jufar; Prof. Bekele Megersa; Dr Marshet Adugna; Assist. Prof. Haile Alemayehu
Fish and fishery product contribute to 17% of the global animal protein intake, but its contamination can cause food borne infections and constitute a risk to the public health. Across sectional study design was conducted comprising of field survey and laboratory analysis of fish samples from December 2022 to June 2023 in Koka and Batu towns. The aim of the study was to determine the bacterial load, detect common food borne pathogenic bacteria as well as to assess food safety knowledge, attitude and hygienic practices of fish and fish products. A total of 130 fish products were collected randomly from cooked (n= 20), frozen (n= 15), and fresh fish fillets (n= 65) as well as swab samples from hands, knife and filleting table (n=30). All collected samples were transported and analyzed at Aklilu Lemma Institute of Pathobiology Medical Microbiology laboratory of Addis Ababa University. Salmonella, E. coli, and S. aureus were detected by selective media and biochemical tests. Total viable bacterial count was assessed by using Plate Count Agar, whereas total Coliform count was determined by Violet Red Bile agar. The data were analyzed using STATA version 14 and descriptive statistics, Chi squared and one way ANOVA were employed to generate required information. The overall prevalence of E. coli, S. aureus and Salmonella were 32.31%, 16.9% and 3.1% respectively. The mean of TPC from cooked, frozen and fresh fillets were 4.54, 5.91 and 7.55 log cfu/g respectively. The mean of TCC from cooked, frozen and fresh fillet were 3.67, 5.02 and 6.1 logcfu/g respectively. The mean of TPC and TCC showed above center for food safety standard level. The survey study revealed that 23.75%, 38.75%, and 51.25% of respondents had poor knowledge, negative attitudes, and poor hygienic practices of fish and fish products respectively.Similarly62.5% and 68.75% of participants had negative attitudes regarding consumption of raw and inadequately cooked fish, implying the potential health risk to consumers. Generally, the study showed detection of pathogenic bacteria and unacceptable bacterial load with unhygienic handling and processing of fish. Education and awareness creation regarding hygienic practice and risk of food borne disease is essential.
ASSESSMENT OF CONTAMINATION OF MILK WITH STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS, MILK CONSUMPTION HABIT AND HANDLING PRACTICES: IMPLICATION FOR PUBIC HEALTH IN SEBETA, CENTRAL ETHIOPIA
(2015-06) Yodit, Ayele; Dr. Bedaso Mammo, Dr. Ashenafi Feyisa; Dr. Fanta Desissa
A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2014 to April 2015 to assess the contamination of milk with Staphylococcus aureus, milk consumption habit and handling practices using microbiological technique and questionnaire survey in Sebeta town, central Ethiopia. Simple random sampling and purposive sampling technique were used to generate the desired data. The study involved 209 individual cow milk, 27 swab from milking buckets and 25 swab from hands of milkers, 20 milk samples from tank of milk collection centers, 10 pasteurized milk from processing plant and 23 farm owners, 19 milk collectors, 50 consumers, 17 hotel/cafeteria workers and 1 milk processing staff member were included. Bacteriological culture and antimicrobial susceptibility tests were performed following the recommended standard procedures. The study revealed a prevalence of 19.6% (95%CI: 14.5-25.6) at farm milk and contamination of 80% of Staphylococcus aureus at collection centers, and there was statistically significant variation between them with higher contamination at milk collection centers (χ²=35.599, df=1, p=0.000). There was also significant variation in the proportion of Staphylococcus aureus among collection centers (χ²= 60.000, df=3 p=0.000). The contamination of milker's hand and milking bucket with Staphylococcus aureus were 32% and 11.1%, respectively. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from none of the pasteurized milk samples. The isolates were found to be resistant to cefoxitine (100%), penicillin G (98.5%), and streptomycin (77.9%). 35% of the farmers were consume raw milk, all didn't wash their hands using antiseptic solutions, never washed cow teats/udder and all had no knowledge of Staphylococcal food poisoning. In conclusion, the study showed poor handling practices of milk, raw milk consumption habit, resistance of Staphylococcus aureus to commonly used antibiotics and lack of awareness about staphylococcal food poisoning implicating for public health issue. Eventually, raising awareness on milk handling practices, milk borne staphylococcal poisoning and further study to estimate the risk of staphylococcal poising following consumption of milk contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus at each milk value chain in the study area were recommended.
Assessment of Farm Management Practices, Antimicrobial Usage, Poultry Health and Welfare: Isolation and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profile of E. Coli in Poultry Farms at the Starter Phase In Bishoftu, Ethiopia
(Addis Abeba University, 2024) Kebene Temesgen; Hika Waktole
In view of the expanding trend of poultry sector, the starter phase of poultry production requires effective management, health, welfare and judicious antimicrobial usage. Suboptimal practices during the starter phase can result in reduced productivity and increased spread of disease. A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2023 to May 2024 with the targeted objectives of assessing farm management practices, poultry health and welfare, antimicrobial usage and susceptibility profile of E. coli in poultry farms during the starter phase in Bishoftu town. Methodologically, the study employed questionnaire surveys and bacteriological isolation of E. coli. The questionnaire survey revealed that 69%, 50%, 70%, 42% and 65% of respondents had good management practices in terms of housing and brooding, chick quality and procurement, health and biosecurity, welfare and antimicrobial usage, respectively. The study's findings indicated several managemental practices were not properly addressed. The study found that farmers' educational level, experience and role significantly (p<0.05) impact on the management of housing and brooding, as well as maintenance of health and biosecurity and rational use of antimicrobials. Education also significantly influenced (χ2=28.6; p=0.000) the promotion of chicken welfare within the farms. Risk factors like breed also impact chick quality and procurement management and maintenance of health and biosecurity (p<0.05). Differences in farm size also played a significant (p<0.05) influence in maintaining health and biosecurity, promoting animal welfare and ensuring the rational use of antimicrobials. The present study disclosed that 52.7% (116/220) isolation of E. coli from cloacal swabs. Further, Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed all isolates showed 100% resistance to oxacillin and penicillin, 88% to vancomycin, 64% to oxytetracycline, 48% to amoxicillin, 32% to sulphamethoxazole-trimethoprim. To promote effective management of poultry farms, particularly during the starter phase targeted interventions are recommended for effective poultry farm management, focusing on promoting poultry health, and welfare and judicious use of antimicrobials for sustainable farming practices
Assessment of Hygienic Milk Production and Prevalence of Mastitis in Dairy Cow in Jikawo Woreda of Nuer Zone, Gambella Region, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababauniversity, 2014-06) Deng, Yien; Tamir, Berhan (Professor)
A cross sectional study was conducted in Jikawo Woreda of Nuer Zone, Gambella Regional State in Southwest Ethiopia, with the objective of assessing hygienic milk production practices, prevalence of mastitis and associated risk factors from December 2013 to April 2014. Data were collected through administering semi-structured questionnaire, group discussion and conducting California Mastitis screening test across the randomly selected households of the three purposively selected kebeles in the Woreda. The questionnaire was administered to 145 households. The results showed that 75.2% (109) of interviewed households were females while the remaining were males who were involved in hygienic milk production responses. Washing udder was not practiced by 95.17% (138) of the households in the area. Only 4.83% (7) practiced washing udder before milking only after the death of the calf. About 48.3% (70) of the households use cold water to clean milk handling equipments. The California Mastitis Screening Test was performed on 121 lactating dairy cows of these; about 60.33% (73) were showed mastitis cases. The prevalence of clinical and subclinical mastitis was found to be 11.57% (14) and 48.76% (59), respectively. Test of quarter level prevalence of mastitis was done on 484 quarters and it was found that 9.32% (45) and 37.89% (183) of the quarters had clinical and subclinical cases, respectively. The quarter level prevalence of clinical and sub clinical mastitis from the highest to lowest rate of infection was left front teats (LF) 53.72% (65), right rear teats (RR) 50.00% (60), left rear teats (LR) 45.56% (55) and right front teats (RF) 39.65% (48). Those animals which were affected with tick infestation (χ2 =11.14, p< 0.003),with teat injury (χ2 =7.14, P<0.008) and with history of mastitis (P<0.003, χ2=8.62) were significantly affected with mastitis compared to their counter parts. The occurrence of mastitis based on age, stage of lactation and parity was significantly higher in adult cow (6-9yrs) (χ2 =7.87, P<0.020), in mid (5-7month) lactation (χ2 =6.41, P<0.041), and in cow with moderate (4-7) parity xii (χ2=11.79, P<0.003) respectively. In conclusion, the hygienic milk production activity in the area as a whole requires an intervention. Mastitis has been found to be an important disease in the area. This indicates proper mastitis control should be practiced by maintaining an appropriate cow's environment and udder health management program by the farmers including further investigation on the etiological agents associated with prevalence of mastitis to undertake measurable control options of mastitis in the area. Keywords: Dairy cow, hygienic, milk, mastitis, prevalence, Jikawo, Nuer, Gambella, Ethiopia
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Urban Dairy Producers In Regards to Hygienic Milk Production and Milk Safety Regulations in Furi, Gelan and Koye-Fecche Subcities of Sheger City Administration, Oromia, Ethiopia
(Addis Abeba University, 2025) Kirubel Bogale; Dr. Biruhtesfa Asrade
This research sought to assess the Ethiopian urban dairy production in the recently orchestrated Sheger City Administration residing in the capital city Addis Ababa with an emphasis on knowledge, attitude and practice of milk producers in regards to safe and hygienic milk production. The study accentuates the perspectives held through urban dairy production to meet the demands of the urban and nearby population while assisting the national efforts towards food security and anchoring the domestic economy. The study further illuminates the noteworthy challenges faced in this industry. 120 dairy producers in the selected sub cities of sheger city (Gelan, Furi and Koyye feche) made up the survey population. Among these milk producers, it was able to observe that 85.7% of them were male and those under the age of 50 years old accounted for 61.8%. Milk producers accounting for 60.7% had possessed a secondary education completion while 43% notified that they were in the business for over five years. Almost all of the dairy producers informed that they are in this production sector solely for market purposes. The results of the study revealed that a significant volume of respondents (87.2%) gave their cognizance toward the vitality of washing hands before engaging in the milking process though only 58% of them informed their consistent practicality. Although a considerable awareness towards safety precautions exists, only 45% informed with the use of sterile materials from milking purposes. The understanding on the necessity of filtering milk before storage exists among 82% of the respondents while 91% of them concede the health liability that comes along with improper hygiene. Only 10% of respondents were aware of the existence of rules and regulations on milk safety although 62% implied receiving training from responsible authorities. Housing conditions were noted satisfactory on the overall, with 62.43%, 26.43% and 11.43% were noted as satisfactory, standard and poor, respectively. While most producers (75.71%) possess a standardly rated roof and drainage system, a lower volume of respondents (15%) had standard feed and water storage. Most producers (56.43%) relied on tap water and 60.7% implied they give water to their animals twice a day. 83% and 97.2% of the producers insisted on the use of standard deworming and vaccination programs respectively. Despite this commitment toward biosecurity, only 14.4% had decontamination procedures at farm gate while 70 % of them fell short on handy pest control measures. Sheger City's urban dairy farming looks promising, but resource accessibility, regulatory awareness, and hygiene standards need to become more proficient. The study recommends the creation of a strong regulatory framework to guarantee food safety as well as focused training initiatives to improve KAP with regard to milk hygiene. To support sustainable growth in the urban dairy industry, it is also advised that veterinary services, increased institutional support, and programs encouraging women's involvement in dairy farming be implemented.
Assessment of persistence informal backyard slaughtering practices of domestic ruminants for home consumption, local butcher shops and mini cafeterias in east Shewa, Oromia Region, Ethiopia.
(Addis Abeba University, 2025) Teshome Demissie; Biruhtesfa Asrade
Ethiopia, with one of the largest livestock populations in Africa, but faces persistent challenges in ensuring food safety and public health due to widespread backyard slaughtering practices. From the previous studies, informal slaughtering practice for home consumption, local butcher shops, and mini cafeterias remains prevalent in Bishoftu, Adama, and Mojo towns. Therefore, the study aimed to investigate the persistence of hidden backyard slaughtering practices in selected study areas. A cross-sectional study design was employed, involving semi-structured questionnaires administered to 288 participants, including households, butcher shop, and mini cafeteria owners across Bishoftu, Adama, and Mojo. Data on slaughtering practices, persistency, motivators, waste disposal, and regulatory compliance were collected and analyzed. The result showed that 92.36% (266) respondents were participated in backyard slaughtering ractices. Among across the three towns of eastern Shewa zone, the highest practice was recorded in Bishoftu 41.73%, followed by Adama 34.59% and Mojo 23.18%. The socio demographic determinants of the respondents for practice were recorded. Among these, households 46.64% and those age with category of 35-45 years 49.63% were highly participated and significantly associated with practices of the hidden backyard slaughtering with P-value (P=0.000). Motivating forces for practice was also investigated across the three towns. Accordingly, income, convenience and cultural events are major reasons for practice at high level with 38.01% in Adama, Bishoftu 63.16%, and Mojo 26.45% respectively with non-significant difference with p-value (P=0.356). The result showed that sheep and goat have associations with the practice due to size their size and being suitable for hidden practice of backyard slaughtering in Bishoftu, Adama, and Mojo respectively with very significant difference value (P=0.027). These findings showed unsafe handling of diseased organs, improper waste disposal, systemic gaps in infrastructure, community awareness and these would increase the risk of food borne and zoonotic disease. Therefore, to safeguard the public health and strengthening regulatory enforcement, inspection mechanisms, and community education programs are very important in Ethiopia.
Assessment of physical, functional, hygienic status and bacteriological quality of meat in selected municipal abattoirs and butcher shops in Central Ethiopian Region
(Addis Abeba University, 2025) Ramato Habtamu; Professor Gezahegne Mamo; Dr. Nebyou Moje; Dr. Biruhtesfa Asrade
Abattoir is the only specialized official place in which food animals were slaughtered, inspected, processed and prepared for direct human consumption and butcher shops are places were meat provided for consumers. Cross-sectional study design was carried out from November 2024 to April 2025 with the objectives of the assessment of physical, functional, hygienic status and bacteriological quality of meat in selected municipal abattoirs and butcher shops of Hadiya, Silte and Kambata zones in the Central Ethiopian Region. The data were collected by using semi-structured questionnaires and check lists on facilities and sanitary practices in the abattoir followed by laboratory bacteriological assessment of the meat in-contacts slaughtered at the abattoirs and butcher shops. Hosanna, Durame and Worabe town municipal abattoirs were purposively selected then Multistage sampling techniques were employed to obtain swab samples from carcass and in-contact surfaces of abattoirs and butcher shops while simple random sampling was used to incorporate 132 participants for interview. A total of 71 swab samples from meat and in-contact surfaces of abattoirs and butcher shops were collected for microbial assessment from five sample types then serial dilution method was applied to determine bacterial load. The present study showed that from total participants 71 (53.78%) were not trained on meat safety and 84 (63.6%) were not followed their medical checkup and 47 (35.6%) infrequently wash their protective clothes. In this study 72 (54.5%) and 64 (48.5%) of the participants have no awareness for about zoonosis and food borne-illness respectively. The highest mean total viable count (TVC) and total coliform count (TCC) with 7.3±0.4 log 10 cfu/cm2 and 7.1±0.05 log10 cfu/cm2 from Hosanna town municipal abattoir workers hand and total staphylococcus count (TSC) 6.4±0.5 log10 cfu/cm2 from worker’s hands of Worabe town municipal abattoir. The overall study results from microbial count and survey indicates the poor hygienic condition and processing of all the three town municipal abattoirs. Therefore, regulations, good slaughtering and handling of meat along the meat production chain should be applied to produce wholesome and safe meat for consumers
Assessment of physical, functional, hygienic status and bacteriological quality of meat in selected municipal abattoirs and butcher shops in Central Ethiopian Region”
(Addis Abeba University, 2025) Ramato Habtamu; Professor Gezahegne Mamo; Dr. Nebyou Moje; Dr. Biruhtesfa Asrade
Abattoir is the only specialized official place in which food animals were slaughtered, inspected, processed and prepared for direct human consumption and butcher shops are places were meat provided for consumers. Cross-sectional study design was carried out from November 2024 to April 2025 with the objectives of the assessment of physical, functional, hygienic status and bacteriological quality of meat in selected municipal abattoirs and butcher shops of Hadiya, Silte and Kambata zones in the Central Ethiopian Region. The data were collected by using semi-structured questionnaires and check lists on facilities and sanitary practices in the abattoir followed by laboratory bacteriological assessment of the meat in-contacts slaughtered at the abattoirs and butcher shops. Hosanna, Durame and Worabe town municipal abattoirs were purposively selected then Multistage sampling techniques were employed to obtain swab amples from carcass and in-contact surfaces of abattoirs and butcher shops while simple random sampling was used to incorporate 132 participants for interview. A total of 71 swab samples from meat and in-contact surfaces of abattoirs and butcher shops were collected for microbial assessment from five sample types then serial dilution method was applied to determine bacterial load. The present study showed that from total participants 71 (53.78%) were not trained on meat safety and 84 (63.6%) were not followed their medical checkup and 47 (35.6%) infrequently wash their protective clothes. In this study 72 (54.5%) and 64 (48.5%) of the participants have no awareness for about zoonosis and food borne-illness respectively. The highest mean total viable count (TVC) and total coliform count (TCC) with 7.3±0.4 log 10 cfu/cm2 and 7.1±0.05 log10 cfu/cm2 from Hosanna town municipal abattoir workers hand and total staphylococcus count (TSC) 6.4±0.5 log10 cfu/cm2 from worker’s hands of Worabe town municipal abattoir. The overall study results from microbial count and survey indicates the poor hygienic condition and processing of all the three town municipal abattoirs. Therefore, regulations, good slaughtering and handling of meat along the meat production chain should be applied to produce wholesome and safe meat for consumers.
ASSESSMENT OF THE CONTAMINATION OF BEEF WITH SALMONELLA AND KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES AND BEEF HANDLING PRACTICES ALONG BEEF SUPPLY CHAIN IN DUKEM TOWN, ETHIOPIA
(2017-06) Zelalem, Sisay; Dr. Fanta Desissa , Dr. Gezahegn Mamo
Salmonella is a major cause of food borne disease in the world, with an increasing concern for the emergence and spread of antimicrobial-resistant strains. A cross-sectional study was conducted between November, 2016 and April, 2017 to estimate the prevalence, and determine the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Salmonella, and assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices along beef supply chain in Dukem town. A total of 286 samples comprising feces, carcass swab and retail meat were collected and examined for the presence of Salmonella following the standard techniques and procedures. Hundred respondents consisting of 20 abattoir workers, 20 butchery workers and 60 consumers participated in the study. Systematic random sampling and purposive sampling techniques were used to generate the desired data. The overall prevalence of Salmonella along the beef supply chain was 6.3% (95% CI: 3.9-9.7). The specific prevalence of Salmonella based on sample source was 0.9%, 2.9%, and 12.7 % in feces, carcass swab, and retail meat, respectively. There was statistically significant difference along the beef supply chain(X2 = 14.3027, P <0.05). Among the isolates, 94.4% (n=17) were resistant at least to one of the antimicrobials. All the isolates (100%) were sensitive to Kanamycin where as 94.4%, 88.9% and 83.3% of the isolates were found to be sensitive to Sufisoxazole, Tetracycline and Nalidixic acid, respectively. Multi-drug resistance was observed in 27.8% (n=5) of the isolates.Majority (95%) of abattoir workers didn’t know that contaminated carcass has public health risk. According to the respondents, falling of carcass in the dirty floor and sudden stomach cut were the major possible sources for carcass contamination. All of the abattoir and butchery workers received neither job related training nor medical check up. Most (70%) of consumers had habit of eating raw beef and 73.3% of them had no knowledge about the transmission of Salmonella via meat consumption. In conclusion, the study found the occurrence of Salmonella along beef supply chain with higher prevalence at meat retail shop and the variability in the susceptibility pattern of Salmonella isolates against the tested antimicrobials. It also showed that the existing beef handling practices, knowledge and attitudes about the importance of occurrence of Salmonella along the beef supply chain could be a potential public health risk unless the necessary intervention is in place. All stakeholders should raise awareness in minimizing the occurrence of Salmonella and thereby transmissions of resistant Salmonella to humans and risk of raw beef consumption along the beef supply chain particularly at meat retail. Moreover, identifying Salmonella serotypes circulating in the area and regular monitoring of the heath status of workers and hygienic condition of the slaughter house and meat retail shop is recommended.

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