Training Years: 2018-2019
Training Site: Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia (UPCH)
Country: Peru
Mentors: Margaret Kosek, MD (JHU); Mirko Zimic (UPCH)
Title: Molecular Epidemiology of Antibiotic Resistant Campylobacter spp. in an Endemic Tropical Area of Peru
Project Description:
Aim 1: To compare the presence and diversity of ABR genes in Campylobacter spp. strains isolated from children and household animals of Iquitos, Peru, and to assess their phylogeny. Using previously isolated strains of Campylobacter spp. from children, poultry and dogs from the same households, we will explore the burden of quinolone and macrolide resistance genes using whole genome sequencing (WGS). This will enable us to properly assess the association of ABR genes between animals and humans. By establishing the phylogenetic relationship of strains we will be able to determine if poultry are reservoirs of Campylobacter spp. in this setting where exposure to human and animal feces is intense.
Aim 2: To explore the knowledge, attitudes and practices related to the use of antibiotics in households, small scale and industrial poultry production of Iquitos, Peru. In this aim we will explore the poultry produce’s knowledge of antibiotics and context in which they are used with the objective providing a contextual understanding for data from specific aim 1. Through a short survey, we will establish the most frequent antibiotics sold and used. This is to ultimately develop and implement effective disease control interventions and inform antibiotic commercialization regulations.
NIH Support: Fogarty fellows postdoctoral training award
