Antimicrobial Resistance in Escherichia coli Strains of Poultry

Unregulated use of antibiotics has led to selection pressure in many pathogens, leading to the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The effect of AMR in humans as well as all the species of animals has been observed. Escherichia coli (E. coli), a gram-negative bacterium, colonizes in the gastrointestinal tract and maintains a mutually beneficial relationship with the host. Most of the E. coli strains are harmless and inhabit the intestinal tract, but there are certain pathogenic strains, which cause infections both in humans and animals, leading to higher chances of transmission of AMR genes. Development of AMR in E. coli strains of poultry has become a major public health concern, as poultry meat and eggs act as a direct source of transmission of these multi-resistant strains to humans. This review focuses on the worldwide emergence of AMR in E. coli strains of poultry, their impact on public health, and the importance of "One health approach" to tackle the current situation.