Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was recovered many times from raw poultry meat or carcasses; however, these were predominantly human-associated strains. Hence, possible human involvement in contamination of carcasses by slaughterhouse workers and other human handlers may not be overlooked in such cases. During this study, efforts were focused on isolation of MRSA from oropharynx of live poultry. Samples were collected from oropharynx of 50 live cockerels. A total of 25 Staphylococcus aureus isolates were identified. Only four isolates produced glistening, convex and mucoid colonies of MRSA on selective media. These isolates were further confirmed for methicillin resistance through latex agglutination test and produced catalase and coagulase, β-hemolysis on blood agar. Out of 25 Staphylococcus aureus isolates, 16% isolates were identified as MRSA. Antibiotic susceptibility profile of MRSA isolates indicated 100% sensitivity against vancomycin and linezolid whereas 100% resistance was recorded against oxacillin, cefoxitin and penicillin. However, 50% of the MRSA isolates were sensitive to levofloxacin and trimethoprim/ sulphamethoxazole and 25% isolates displayed resistance to tetracycline.

Key words: Antibiotic susceptibility profile, Latex agglutination test, Live cockerels, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, MRSA