Detection of Virulence Genes in Salmonella Isolates from Retail Poultry Meat Sold in Kaduna City Markets

Non-typhoidal Salmonella species are a leading cause of foodborne illness globally, with retail poultry meat serving as a primary reservoir for human transmission. The detection of virulence-associated genes in Salmonella isolates from food products provides critical information on pathogenic potential and food safety risks. This study investigated virulence gene profiles in Salmonella isolates recovered from retail poultry meat samples obtained from open-air and indoor markets in Kaduna City, Northwest Nigeria. Sixty poultry meat samples were processed using pre-enrichment and selective plating on xylose lysine desoxycholate (XLD) agar. Confirmed Salmonella isolates were characterized by PCR targeting the invA, sipB, stn, and spvC genes. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using 12 antimicrobial agents. Salmonella was isolated from 41.7% of sampled meat products. All confirmed isolates harbored invA, while spvC (associated with systemic spread) was detected in 29%. Multi-drug resistance was observed in 63% of isolates, with resistance to nalidixic acid and tetracycline most prevalent. The high contamination rate and virulence gene prevalence indicate serious food safety risks for consumers in Kaduna City. Keywords: Salmonella, virulence genes, invA, poultry meat, Kaduna State.