Current trends in drug resistance of pathogens isolated from poultry and the use of commercial phage preparations to control infections

Food safety in poultry products is crucial due to the potential presence of various pathogens causing foodborne diseases. The microbes most commonly isolated from poultry include Salmonella spp., Campylobacter jejuni, Campylobacter coli, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus spp., and Listeria monocytogenes. A particular threat is posed by drug-resistant pathogens, which significantly limit the possibility of controlling infections and food contamination. In the last 5 years, significant changes have been observed in the acquisition of antimicrobial resistance in pathogens, which is closely linked to the type of drug used. The aim of the present study is to present current trends in acquisition of drug resistance among the bacteria most commonly isolated from poultry and the perspectives of using of experimental and commercial phage preparations as an alternative to antibiotics. Analysis of the literature from various parts of the world, as well as our own research, reveals that drug resistance among bacteria in poultry continues to be a major factor limiting the ability to combat infections. Equally concerning is the fact that over the last 5 years, there has been a significant increase in bacterial resistance to the antibiotics most commonly used in poultry production, mainly tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, beta-lactams, and macrolides, which is indicative of continuing acquisition of resistance by pathogens. Actions undertaken at many research centres, including in Poland, using bacteriophages as alternatives to antibiotics are met with considerable interest, especially as the efficacy of phage preparations is very high. A measurable result is the increase in the production of commercial preparations containing phages, despite legal restrictions on their use in animal production. Alternatives to antimicrobials for controlling infections must be sought in order to curb drug resistance among bacteria. Increased public awareness and knowledge of bacteriophages are helpful here, as they are conducive to legislative action facilitating the registration process for commercial phage preparations, especially in the European market.