Seroprevalence of Brucellosis in Cattle in Abia State

Abstract

Bovine brucellosis caused by the organism Brucella abortus is a chronic infectious disease of public health and economic significance. Studies on prevalence of bovine brucellosis in Abia State are scarce. Therefore, a cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of bovine brucellosis in the State. Blood samples were collected from 212 cattle from various parts of the State and sera subjected to Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT) to detect antibodies against Brucella. Overall sero-prevalence of 13.7% was reported. The prevalence was higher in female cattle (24.2%) than in males (11%). Red Bororo showed higher seropositivity (26.7%) than other breeds screened. Sero-prevalence was higher in the semi-intensively managed animals (27.8%) than in extensively reared cattle. Similarly, cattle aged 2 to 3 years recorded a higher prevalence (25%) than others. However, there was no statistically significant association between the seroprevalence of brucellosis and age (P=0.82)/ breed (P=0.25), while a significant association was recorded for seroprevalence of brucellosis and sex (P= 0.05)/ management system (P=0.07). The detection of brucellosis in cattle poses a very significant public health risk in Abia state, and so it is important to carry out awareness campaigns to enlighten cattle handlers and the general public of its public health significance.