Molecular, Antibiogram Characterization and Assessment Biocidal Potency of Some Essential Oils in Combating the Virulent Pathogenic Escherichia coli from Different

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a food-borne bacterium responsible for several clinical infections in animals and humans. This study aimed to isolate E. coli from feces and milk in a dairy farm along with urine samples gathered from workers managing these animals. Serological, molecular characterization and evaluation of the antimicrobial efficacy of routinely used antibiotics were assessed. Finally, finding a way to overcome high resistance of E. coli using some essential oils, thyme, peppermint, capsaicin, orange, green tea, tea tree and onion oils. Samples (n=610) were collected from feces, milk and urine. E. coli was significantly found in 44.87, 22.2, and 28.4%, respectively at X2=348.467, P>0.001. Serologically, O86 was the prominent serotype and O55 found in milk and feces. Also, O44, O128 and O111 serotypes denoted in milk. While O91 and O78 noticed in urine only. Genetically, quorum-related gene (Luxs) was amplified in all isolates. In nearly all traits, pathotype (Chua, YjaA, TspE4c2) and virulent (Iss, IutA, Tsh) gene markers were observed. Also, there was considerable multidrug resistance at P>0.001 in human and animal strains. It was obvious that tea tree oil was significantly showed antimicrobial efficiency whereas, thyme oil was ineffective in inhibiting development of E. coli. It was concluded that the existence of virulent and quorum determinants in E. coli of animals and humans is a noteworthy prospect for the public health concern of cow's milk and feces. Furthermore, the inhibitory and biocidal elements of essential oils are a realistic technique for eliminating resistant E. coli.