Isolation and Identification of Virulent Klebsiella spp from Cattle in Three Districts of Chhattishgarh, India

Klebsiella is a genus of Gram-negative, non-motile, capsulated bacteria commonly found in soil, water, and various hosts. **Klebsiella pneumoniae** is the major pathogenic species causing infections in humans and animals and is notable for its increasing multidrug resistance and economic impact in dairy animals. The study investigates the isolation and identification of virulent Klebsiella species from cattle in three districts of Chhattisgarh, India. A total of 50 biological samples, including milk, wound swabs, and uterine swabs, were collected from cattle exhibiting clinical symptoms of infections like mastitis, pyometra, and wounds. Isolation and identification of Klebsiella spp. were carried out using cultural, biochemical, and molecular techniques, including growth on selective media, biochemical testing, and PCR amplification targeting the gyrA gene. Results revealed an overall prevalence of 26% across the districts, with the highest incidence in Durg (40%) and a notable prevalence in mastitic milk samples (62.5%). The findings highlight the growing significance of Klebsiella in cattle infections, contributing to mastitis, uterine, and wound infections, which can result in considerable economic losses in the dairy industry. The study emphasizes the need for further research on the zoonotic potential of Klebsiella spp. and its impact on both animal health and dairy production.