This study determined the prevalence, source, and antimicrobial resistance profile of Campylobacter spp on retail chicken meat samples at public wet markets in selected municipalities of Nueva Vizcaya (Bayombong, Solano, Bagabag, and Bambang) Campylobacter spp. was identified through RT-PCR analysis For antimicrobial resistance, isolates were tested through broth microdilution using Sensititre Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing System. In total, 100 chicken meat samples from public wet markets were obtained, and overall prevalence was 12% Highest contamination rate was found in chicken meats sold in Bayombong with 36% (9/25) of the samples contaminated with Campylobacter spp Neck samples also had the highest rate of contamination. All isolates were found to be susceptible to the six tested antimicrobial agents including ciprofloxacin, erythromycin, gentamicin, nalidixic acid, streptomycin and tetracycline. This indicate that these antimicrobials are still effective to treat Campylobacter infections. The prevalence results in our study revealed that public wet markets can be sources of chicken meat contaminated with Campylobacter spp. Possible risk factors observed in this study associated with contamination are type of meat vehicle, source of water, and storage of meat. In the Philippines, where consumption of chicken meat is widespread, Campylobacter spp. contamination could pose a potential risk to public health, therefore, more inspection controls should be established by local government for retail meat shops to bring down level of contamination.

Thesis (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine)

includes appendices and bibliographical references.