Prevalence and risk factors for faecal carriage of Extended Spectrum β-lactamase producing Enterobacteriaceae among food handlers in lower basic schools in West Coast Region of The Gambia.

The prevalence of faecal carriage of ESBLs producing Enterobacteriaceae among food handlers in the Gambia is low. The history to use of the antibiotics in the last three months was found to be significantly associated with this prevalence. Therefore, the institution of a robust antimicrobial surveillance and treatment of patients with such infections are necessary to curb the spread of these multidrug resistant bacteria in the country. Rational prescription and usage of the antibiotics especially cephalosporin should be advocated both in public and private health facilities.