In vitro efficacy of antibiotics and bacteriophages against Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates from clinically affected captive falcons in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global threat to human and animal health. This requires extensive research in order to understand the implications on health, pathogenicity and diseases in various species. Falcons play a crucial role in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as part of the Arab cultural heritage. In falcons, AMR research is essential for the benefit of veterinary medicine, public health and the environment. The primary objective of this study was to assess the in vitro efficacy of antibiotics against Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates from clinically affected captive falcons in Dubai, UAE and investigate the possibility of using bacteriophages as an alternative treatment option. To achieve this, P. aeruginosa isolates were tested by antibiogram and phagogram. The results provide valuable information on effectiveness and possible treatment options. Furthermore, demonstrating a high resistance of P. aeruginosa in falcons in veterinary-only drugs including enrofloxacin and marbofloxacin, while antibiotics are listed on the WHO AWaRe (access, watch, reserve) monitoring list such as ceftazidime, ciprofloxacin and piperacillin/tazobactam show good sensitivity. Bacteriophages, as natural viruses that lyse bacteria, have gained attention as an alternative therapeutic tool to combat bacterial infections, particularly those caused by antibiotic resistant strains. The in vitro efficacy shows that commercially available bacteriophage preparations for therapeutic use might provide an alternative to antibiotics in falcons. Nevertheless, the in vivo efficacy might differ from the in vitro results, and regulatory difficulties currently restrict therapeutic use. From a One Health perspective, this study explores AMR in falcons asf potential sentinel for AMR due to their close contact with humans, frequent antimicrobial exposure, and shared environment. It also shows possibilities to approach AMR by innovative strategies such as bacteriophage therapy. It also shows the need for effective surveillance, responsible antimicrobial use via antibiotic stewardship and control not only in human, but also in veterinary medicine. Emphasising the connectivity between human, animal and environment health is of importance under the One Health approach and is essential to combat AMR.