Comprehensive Genomic Characterization of Antibiotic Resistance, Virulence, and Clonality in Salmonella Isolates from Wild Animals in Algeria.

ABSTRACT

This study investigated Salmonella spp. in wild animals in Algeria, focusing on their prevalence, serotypes, antibiotic resistance, and virulence profiles. From fecal samples collected between May 2021 and June 2022, 1.9% showed Salmonella shedding. The identified serotypes included S. Bredeney, S. Enteritidis, S. Altona, and S. Virchow. Except for S. Altona, all isolates were resistant to quinolones, with S. Bredeney strains, exhibiting multidrug resistance. Whole-genome sequencing revealed various resistance genes and mutations in gyrA or parC genes. Additionally, plasmids IncX1 and ColpVC were detected in several isolates. A comprehensive analysis identified 201 virulence genes. These findings contribute to understanding Salmonella in wild animal populations and their potential impact on public health.