Escherichia coli from artic reindeer

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major problem in human, veterinary and environment sectors. Though wild animals are usually not exposed to clinically relevant antimicrobials, AMR in wild animals has been increasingly reported worldwide. Monitoring resistance prevalence of indicator bacteria including Escherichia coli makes it possible to understand the role of wild animals as reservoirs and vectors in the global dissemination of antimicrobial resistance. Wild reindeers from svalbard islands, located in the arctic ocean were tested for presence of AMR carrying E. coli. Several isolates, resistant to significant antimicrobial agents in human and veterinary medicine, were isolated from multiple reindeers.