Seroprevalence of camelpox and its associated risk factors in selected districts of Jarar zone, Somali Region, Ethiopia

Abstract

BackgroundCamelpox is a common viral disease of camelids caused by camelpox virus, which is endemic in most camelid-breeding countries including Ethiopia, and causes major economic losses. This study aimed to quantify the seroprevalence of camelpox and identify associated risk factors to put into practice efficient control strategies for the disease in the study area.MethodsA cross-sectional study was carried out between January and July of 2023. Blood samples were collected from 374 camels of 75 households residing in two districts in six peasant associations. A sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was employed to detect camelpox-specific antibodies from sera samples. To identify potential risk factors, camel owners were asked in face-to-face interviews.ResultsThe overall seroprevalence of camelpox in the study areas was 16.0% (95% confidence interval: 12.0%–20.0%). A multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed risk factors season, age, and sex had an association with seroprevalence of camelpox (p < 0.05). Sex was strongly associated with camelpox seropositivity, with female camels having a 3.2-fold higher risk of infection than male camels. Likewise, age-related vulnerability to infection was observed in young dromedaries, as they were 2.3 times more likely to become infected than adults.ConclusionThis study revealed moderate seroprevalence of camelpox in the study area. Thus, effective preventative strategies, such as vaccination programs to stop the spread of camelpox and reduce the financial losses caused by the disease, should be encouraged.