Prevalence and drug-resistance patterns of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and extended-spectrum β-lactamase producing Enterobacteriaceae among raw vegetables

Background : Antimicrobial resistance presents a major threat to global public health. Vegetables contaminated with antibiotic-resistant bacteria can cause foodborne illnesses. Recently, multi-drug resistant (MDR) pathogens, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and extended-spectrum β-lactamase producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-PE), have become increasingly significant in public health. Objective : To determine the prevalence and drug-resistance patterns of MRSA and ESBL-PE among raw vegetables in Aroge Gebeya, Hawassa, Ethiopia. Methods : A cross-sectional study was conducted in Aroge Gebeya Market, Hawassa City (March-May 2024). Six types of raw vegetables (216 samples) were collected. MRSA and ESBL-PE were identified using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Data on sociodemographic variables and hygiene practices were collected using semi-structured questionnaires on Kobo Toolbox Software and analyzed with SPSS Software v29.0.1. Results : The overall prevalence of MRSA and/or ESBL-PE among vegetables was 18.1% (39/216). Among the 160 isolates, 56.9% were MDR, 29.2% were MRSA, and 24.1% were ESBL-PE. The most frequently detected isolates were Staphylococcus aureus (30.0%), Enterobacter species (15.6%), Citrobacter species (15.0%) and Escherichia coli (10.6%). The highest frequency of bacterial isolates was found in tomatoes (21.9%), kale (18.1%), and lettuce (16.9%). Vegetables bought from vendors with untrimmed nails had a significantly higher prevalence of MRSA and/or ESBL-PE (AOR = 4.123; 95% CI: 1.681 - 10.109, p = 0.002). Conclusion : Vegetables are notable for the presence of MDR bacteria. Local health authorities should develop and implement effective control strategies. Further research should explore contamination sources and evaluate intervention strategies to ensure food safety and public health protection.