Molecular Characterization of Extended-Spectrum-Cephalosporin-Resistant Enterobacteriaceaefrom Wild Kelp Gulls in South America

ABSTRACTExtended-spectrum-cephalosporin-resistant Enterobacteriaceaeare a public health concern due to limited treatment options. Here, we report on the occurrence and the molecular characteristics of extended-spectrum-cephalosporin-resistant Enterobacteriaceaerecovered from wild birds (kelp gulls). Our results revealed kelp gulls as a reservoir of various extended-spectrum cephalosporinase genes associated with different genetic platforms. In addition, we report for the first time the presence of a known epidemic clone of Salmonella entericaserotype Heidelberg (JF6X01.0326/XbaI.1966) among wild birds.