Objective: A cross-sectional investigation was performed between November 2020 and May 2021 to detect L. monocytogens in raw cow milk, and to assess its prevalence and antimicrobial resistance patterns among smallholder dairy farms in Kombolcha town and Kutaber district in the Amhara Regional State of Ethiopia. Methods: A total of 384 milk samples were randomly collected and examined with standard bacteriological procedures, biochemical assays, and the Listeriolysin O latex agglutination test for confirmation. The antimicrobial susceptibility of 15 L. monocytogenes isolates to nine frequently applied antibiotics was assessed with the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method. Results: The overall prevalence of Listeria spp was 12.8% (49/384), among which L. monocytogenes accounted for 4% (15/384). Farm management conditions and herd size were significantly associated with Listeria spp. occurrence ( p < 0.05). The isolates displayed complete resistance to sulfamethoxazole and nalidixic acid but sensitivity to most other antibiotics tested. Conclusions: These findings highlight the zoonotic and public health implications of L. monocytogenes in raw milk. Strengthening hygienic practices, farmer awareness, and safe milk handling measures will therefore be essential to mitigate potential health risks.
Nasr et al. (Thu,) studied this question.