Sero-prevalence and community awareness on the risks associated with Livestock and Human brucellosis in selected districts of Fafan Zone of Ethiopian-Somali National Regional State

Abstract

A cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the sero-prevalence, potential risk factors for transmission and spread of brucellosis in livestock and human in Jigjiga and Gursum Woredas of Fafan Zone in Ethiopian-Somali. Two Kebeles were purposively selected from each Worada based on accessibility and willingness of livestock owners. For serology, a total of 268 cattle, 108 sheep, 172 goats, 183 camels, 211 humans were included. For questionnaire, 99 volunteers were recruited. Blood samples were collected from livestock and human. The serum was subjected to Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT) and Complement Fixation Test (CFT) to detect Brucella antibody. Out of the total 731 livestock examined, 3.0% were positive for Brucella antibodies using RBPT. Highest sero-prevalence was recorded in camels (4.9%) followed by goat (2.9%), cattle (2.6%), and sheep (0.9%). Using CFT, 0.4% of animals were found positive for brucellosis. A sero-prevalence of 1.7% was recorded in goats using CFT but no in other animal species. From the 211 human serum samples, 5 (2.4%) were positive for Brucella infection using RBPT. One (0.4%) was confirmed by CFT. Questioner survey revealed, almost all respondents (98%) were not aware about zoonotic risks of brucellosis. Cattle and camel milking were mainly performed by housewives. Although 97-99% of respondent had habits of cooked meat consumption, the majorities (99%) consume raw milk. In the pastoral community, the observed sero-prevalence of human brucellosis along with the practices of animal husbandry and animal food consumption habits, might give an insight that brucellosis could pose a public health hazard.