This study investigated the isolation and characterization of multidrug-resistant (MDR) *Escherichia coli* from raw chicken meat in Sylhet, Bangladesh. 600 chicken meat swabs were collected and analyzed, revealing a high prevalence of *E. coli* (63.5%). Antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed resistance to multiple antibiotics. PCR identified various antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), with *tetA* (tetracycline resistance) being the most prevalent. A significant number of isolates were MDR, harboring multiple ARGs. ESBL and AmpC beta-lactamase genes were also detected. Significant correlations were found between resistant phenotypes and genotypes. The findings highlight the concerning prevalence of antibiotic resistance in chicken meat and underscore the need for prudent antimicrobial use in poultry farming.

Md. Masudur Rahman, Asmaul Husna, Hatem A. Elshabrawy, Jahangir Alam, Nurjahan Yasmin Runa, A. T. M. Badruzzaman, Nahid Arjuman Banu, Mohammad Al Mamun, Bashudeb Paul, Shobhan Das, Md. Mahfujur Rahman, A. T. M. Mahbub-E-Elahi, Ahmed S. Khairalla, Hossam M. Ashour