Research Article | 12 May 2026

Cross-sectoral antimicrobial resistance patterns of Escherichia coli across human, animal, and environmental interfaces in southern Bangladesh

Rahima Akther Dipa1, Ibrahim Khalil2, Md Sabbir Hossen3, Md Nurul Alam2, AKM Akbar Kabir4, Md Mynul Hasan Jesan3, Kamrun Nahar Koly2, Pk Niharjon2, and Mohammad Mahmudul Hassan5Show more
VETERINARY WORLD | Article No. 12 | pg no. 1970-1983 | Vol. 19, Issue 5 | DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2026.1970-1983
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Abstract

          
Background and Aim: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an escalating global health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where human, animal, and environmental interfaces are closely interconnected. This study aimed to compare AMR patterns in Escherichia coli isolates across human and animal health sectors within a shared ecological setting in southern Bangladesh, adopting a One Health perspective. 
Materials and Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted in Barishal District, Bangladesh, using routine surveillance data collected between January and August 2023. A total of 217 samples were analyzed, including 125 human urine samples and 92 animal-associated samples (poultry liver and farm environmental sources). Isolation and identification of E. coli were performed using standard culture and biochemical methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method against ampicillin, ciprofloxacin, and azithromycin. Statistical analyses included univariate comparisons, multivariate logistic regression, and principal component analysis (PCA) to assess resistance patterns and sectoral differences. 
Results: E. coli was isolated in 54.4% of human samples and 53.3% of animal-associated samples. Human isolates exhibited significantly higher resistance to ampicillin (86.8% vs. 46.9%, p < 0.001) and azithromycin (55.9% vs. 8.2%, p < 0.001) compared to animal isolates, while ciprofloxacin resistance showed no significant difference (39.7% vs. 28.6%, p = 0.243). Multivariate analysis revealed significantly higher odds of resistance in human isolates for ampicillin (OR = 4.3) and azithromycin (OR = 9.3). PCA demonstrated that resistance to ampicillin and azithromycin was the primary driver of variability, collectively explaining over 80% of the observed variance. Human isolates clustered distinctly, indicating stronger resistance profiles, whereas animal isolates showed greater variability, particularly for ciprofloxacin. 
Conclusion: This study demonstrates clear sectoral differences in AMR patterns of E. coli in southern Bangladesh, with human isolates showing markedly higher resistance to key antibiotics. These findings underscore the urgent need for integrated One Health strategies, strengthened antimicrobial stewardship, and enhanced surveillance systems. Addressing AMR requires coordinated efforts across human, animal, and environmental health sectors to mitigate the spread and impact of resistant pathogens. 
          
Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, azithromycin resistance, ciprofloxacin resistance, Escherichia coli, One Health approach, poultry farming, urinary tract infection, zoonotic transmission.