First description of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance determinants and β-lactamase encoding genes in non-typhoidal Salmonella isolated from humans, one companion animal and food in Romania

Background Gastroenteritis attributable to Salmonella enterica and the continuous increase in antimicrobial resistance of this gut pathogen, which compromises the use of previously effective treatments, is of great concern for public health. This study was conducted in order to investigate the presence of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) determinants and β-lactamase-encoding genes, in S.enterica, isolated from humans, one companion animal and food. Moreover, the study aimed to identify potential vehicles of transmission of resistant strains to humans, with focus on food products (meat).