Run-off Patterns of Vancomycin Resistant Enterococci (VRE clones) in Cows Raw Milk and Imported Milk Powders at Baghdad Markets

Codebook shifting of some clones of Enterococci from normal flora to genotypically and phenotypically foodborne opportunistic and multidrug resistant pathogens in our ecosystem represent a dangerous hygienic problem. Seventy-five pooled milk samples were collected from different districts in Baghdad ecosystem from January until May (2019). Fifty raw milk samples pooled directly from cows and milk containers (25 each) and 25 imported milk powders pooled from Baghdad markets, in which 15 samples were inspected monthly (five from each brand). Certified and modified traits profits for isolation and confirmation policy. Frequency and distribution of verified data in Baghdad environment revealed variable results. Seven Enterococcus faecalis phenotypes (9.33%) were recovered from raw milk samples, in which four isolates (5.33 %) recovered from cows raw milk and three isolates (4 %) recovered from milk containers. No clones were found in imported milk powders. All isolates were biofilm-producers and vancomycin resistant as verified via modified Christensen biofilm assay and antibiotics sensitivity test. Monitoring these contamination events with vancomycin resistant Enterococcus faecalis needs sophisticated hygienic efforts in Baghdad ecosystem.