Phenotypic and molecular characterization of typhoidal and non-typhoidal Salmonella isolates from humans, animals and the environment in Ethiopia
PhD Candidate: Anteneh Habte
Institutions: Addis Ababa University and Armauer Hansen Research Institute
Supervisors: Dr. Aklilu Feleke, Dr. Adane Mihret, Dr. Andargachew Mulu
Salmonella enterica and Salmonella bongori are the two gram-negative, motile, facultative anaerobic rod-shaped species of salmonella belonging to the Enterobacteriaceae family. It resides in the digestive system and bloodstream of humans and animals. The WHO reported that 9 million people fall sick and 110,000 people die from typhoid fever every year. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has been recognized as one of the major health threats of global concern to people and animals, especially in East Africa and Ethiopia. The application of whole genome sequencing for surveillance enables the identification and characterization of these bacteria.
Objectives: To detect, identify and characterize typhoidal and non-typhoidal Salmonella serovars from human, chicken, cattle and environmental samples in Ethiopia and to understand their population structure and clonal relationship.
Methods: A cross-sectional study will be conducted from September 2024 to August 2027 in Addis Ababa, Adama, Assela and Hawassa cities of Ethiopia. 328 blood/stool samples from humans, 765 samples from chickens/cattle and 272 samples from food and water will be collected. The collected samples will be tested for the availability of salmonella, and each isolate will be further tested for drug susceptibility and sequenced for further studies.
Expected outcomes: Provide evidence on the burden of typhoid fever and inform the actual contribution of animals and the environment on salmonella transmission, virulence and drug resistance in Ethiopia.
Result dissemination plan: The findings of this study will be presented to Addis Ababa University and Armauer Hansen Research Institute community in the form of a thesis. In addition, the data will be presented at appropriate national and international scientific conferences. Furthermore, manuscripts will be prepared and submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals.