Sero-prevalence of human and livestock brucellosis and associated risk factors in Marsabit county, Kenya.

Abstract

Brucellosis is among the world’s widest spread zoonotic diseases and recognized as a public health concern in both developed and developing countries. It is a bacterial zoonotic infection resulting in significant health and economic losses in Kenya. Human infection of brucellosis occurs only from contact with infected animals or animal products. There is limited information on the public health implication of brucella particularly in the pastoral areas of Kenya. Thus, the objectives of the current study were 1) To estimate the sero-prevalence of brucellosis in human and animals; 2) To determine risk factors associated with human sero-positivity; and 3) To study the knowledge attitude and practices (KAP) of the local community in relation to brucellosis transmission and control. A cross-sectional survey was conducted within Marsabit County which represents a pastoral ecosystem. The study was conducted in a two-stage cluster sample whereby sub-locations and households were randomly selected. All persons living in the selected household were listed and three randomly selected. Sampling of livestock was conducted at the herd level where the maximum number of animals sampled per herd per species was fifteen animals randomly selected. Blood samples from the selected animal species (cattle, sheep, goats, camels) were tested for Brucella antibodies using an ELISA test.