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Poultry farms as reservoirs of azole-resistant fungi

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Resumo:The intensification of poultry farming has raises concerns regarding microbial contamination and antifungal resistance, particularly involving Aspergillus fumigatus, a key pathogen presenting clinical relevance. This study aims to present the first in-depth evaluation of environmental conditions, airborne particles, microbial contamination, and fungal resistance to azole drugs in poultry farm environments. A multi-approach sampling strategy (passive and active sampling methods) was conducted throughout the poultry production cycle. Microbial characterization was performed, combining culture-dependent methods and molecular techniques with a focus on fungal diversity and azole resistance. Bacteria and fungal loads indoors exceed the outdoor levels in 80.85 % (n = 38/47) and 78.72 % (n = 37/47) of air samples, respectively. Toxigenic fungal species (Aspergillus spp. and Penicilium spp.) were widespread (air, swabs, electrostatic dust cloths,feed, bed). Fungi resistant to at least one antifungal (itraconazole, voriconazole, posaconazole) was found in 53.3 % of the total samples collected inside poultry pavilions (n = 45/126), including potentially azole-resistant Aspergillus species. Particulate matter acts as a carrier of microorganisms, enhancing workers respiratory exposure risks. Electrostatic dust cloths proved to be a valuable sampling method for exposure assessment to potential pathogenic and resistant fungi. Our findings identify poultry farms as potential hotspots for toxigenic and azole-resistant fungi with implications for occupational health.
Autores principais:Gomes, Bianca
Outros Autores:Dias, Marta; Cervantes, Renata; Pena, Pedro; Carolino, Elisabete; Caetano, Liliana Aranha; Viegas, Susana; Viegas, Carla
Assunto:Aspergillus spp. Azole resistance Occupational exposure Particulate matter Poultry farms Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health Infectious Diseases SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
Ano:2025
País:Portugal
Tipo de documento:artigo
Tipo de acesso:acesso aberto
Instituição associada:Universidade Nova de Lisboa
Idioma:inglês
Origem:Repositório Institucional da UNL

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