Abstract
About 408 Escherichia coli were isolated from sick farm animals and pets during 2003–2006. Of these isolates, four strains showed resistance to third-generation cephalosporins. The blaCTX-M-14 gene was encountered in three E. coli strains, each of which were isolated from two cows and a dog, respectively, and blaCTX-M-15 was identified in an E. coli isolated from a pig. All blaCTX-M genes were found to be transferred. The pulsed-field gel electrophoresis pattern indicated that the CTX-M-type β-lactamase–producing E. coli isolates were genetically diverse. This study shows the emergence of CTX-M-type β-lactamase–producing E. coli in animals for the first time in Korea. Study results suggest the need for awareness and comprehensive monitoring of extended-spectrum β-lactamases in animals because gene transfer can occur between animals as well as humans.
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