Multiplex PCR detection of stx1, stx2 and eaeA genes in Escherichia coli isolated from lambs in ChaharmahalvaBakhtiari, Iran

Introduction: Pathogens can be transmitted to the humans through the consumption of contaminated meat and thus causing disease. Shiga-toxin-producing Escherichia coli can cause mild watery diarrhea to more serious complications of hemorrhagic colitis, and hemolytic uremic syndrome to even death. Present study was conducted to detect Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli from sheep meat (lamb) in ChaharmahalvaBakhtiari, Iran. Materials and methods: 90 Escherichia coli isolates from sheep meat in ChaharmahalvaBakhtiari were evaluated to investigate stx1, stx2 and eaeA genes by multiplex PCR.Results: The rate of stx1 and eaeA-positive Escherichia coli isolates were 11.11% (10/90) and 8.88% (8/90), respectively. Stx2 gene was not found in any isolate.Discussion and conclusion: Lamb harbored Shiga-toxin-producing E. coli and could be a component of Shiga-toxin-producing E. coli transmission from lambs to the humans and can pose a risk to human health in the region.