Prevalence and Antibiogram of Salmonella Species from Poultry Products Sold in Makurdi, Benue State

Salmonella species are among the most important zoonotic pathogens associated with poultry products, causing significant foodborne illness in humans across Nigeria. This study determined the prevalence and antibiotic resistance profiles of Salmonella species isolated from chicken meat, eggs, and giblets sold in markets within Makurdi metropolis, Benue State, in the North Central geopolitical zone of Nigeria. A total of 135 poultry product samples were collected from five major markets between February and May 2024. Salmonella isolation followed the ISO 6579:2017 protocol, involving pre-enrichment, selective enrichment on Rappaport-Vassiliadis broth, and plating on xylose lysine deoxycholate agar. Presumptive colonies were confirmed biochemically and by latex agglutination serotyping. The overall prevalence of Salmonella was 27.4 percent. Chicken giblets had the highest contamination rate at 38.5 percent. Salmonella typhimurium and Salmonella enteritidis were the most prevalent serovars. Antibiogram profiles showed 72 percent resistance to tetracycline and 58 percent resistance to ampicillin, with 31 percent of isolates exhibiting multi-drug resistance. These results highlight the critical role of poultry products as vehicles of antibiotic-resistant Salmonella in Benue State. Enhanced slaughterhouse hygiene, routine Salmonella surveillance in poultry markets, and antibiotic stewardship in veterinary practice are strongly recommended. Keywords: Salmonella, poultry products, antibiotic resistance, Makurdi, foodborne disease.