Staphylococcus aureus in cow milk and milk products in Ambo and Bako towns, Oromia, Ethiopia: prevalence, associated risk factors, hygienic quality, and antibiogram.

backgroundStaphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a foodborne bacterial pathogens that can cause staphylococcal food poisoning and contaminate food of animal origin worldwide. The current study was conducted to estimate the prevalence and assess risk factors, hygienic quality, and antibiogram of S. aureus in raw milk and milk products of cows in Ambo and Bako towns, Ethiopia.

resultsThe overall prevalence of S. aureus in milk and milk products was 15.6% (94/601) with the highest prevalence in bulk tank raw milk (17.50%) and the lowest in "Ergo" (13.11%). High S. aureus contamination at farm level were associated with poor farm hygiene, extensive management system, medium farm size, loose housing, and less frequent removal of bedding. At the cow level, a high S. aureus isolation rate was observed in crossbred cows; cows with age equal to or greater than 5 years old, tick infestation, history of mastitis treatment, and udder washing were not practiced before milking. On the other hand, the type of container, hygiene of milk handler, and container were the major risk factors for bulk tank milk contamination with S. aureus. S. aureus counts ranging from 1.25 × 10

conclusionHigher prevalence of S. aureus and MDR isolates in milk and milk products was detected in study areas. Therefore, to make milk and milk products safe for human consumption, hygienic handling of milk and milk products, regular surveillance of antimicrobial resistance, and prudent use of drugs are recommended.