Phenotypic characterization and antimicrobial susceptibility testing of Klebsiella isolates from Rattus rattus captured at university of Abuja metropolis

The aim of this study is to phenotypically characterize Klebsiella isolates from rats. A survey  was  conducted on 100 swaps samples  obtained  from  captured  house  rats  in University Abuja main campus May August 2021. Isolation and identification the species was done using conventional cultural biochemical techniques. Of samples analyzed, 20 (20%) were positive for Klebsiella, 12% identified as Pneumonia while 8% oxytoca. Isolates further confirmed by Microbact 24E test kit system (Oxiod, UK). encountered subjected antimicrobial susceptibility testing modified single disk diffusion method. Result showed that resistant chloramphenicol (80%), gentamycin (90%), augmentin Cotrimoxazole (70%) amoxicillin (70%). However, susceptible Pefloxacin (100%), Streptomycin (40%), Ofloxacin Ciprofloxacin (100%) Sparfloxacin (80%). Conclusively, documented occurrence existence multiple strains K. Oxytoca rats our environment it therefore public health concern.   Key words: species, household rat, Rattus rattus, susceptibility.