Abstract:

Objectives: E. coli O25b-ST131 has disseminated worldwide in hospitals and the community. The objective of this study was to determine the extent to which E. coli O25b-ST131 accounts for extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing E. coli from clinical samples from all sources in this region. Methods: Between January and June 2010 ESBL-producing E. coli were collected from 94 routine samples including 47 from residents of 25 nursing homes, 15 categorized as hospital acquired and 32 others. PCR was performed for detection of blaCTX-M, blaOXA-1, blaTEM, blaSHV and for the identification of members of the E. coli O25b:ST131 clonal group. PFGE was carried out using XbaI in accordance with PulseNet protocols. Results: The majority (97%) of isolates harbored a blaCTX-M gene. E. coli O25b-ST131 accounted for 87% of all ESBL-producing E. coli and for 96% of isolates from nursing home residents. Conclusion: The E. coli O25b-ST131 clonal group predominated in the collection of ESBL-producing E. coli, particularly in nursing home isolates.

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