Prevalence and Risk Factors of Brucellosis in Goats in Southwest State of Somalia

Abstract

This study evaluated the occurrence and risk dynamics of Brucellosis, a disease of an infectious nature resulting from intracellular Brucella spp- and Gram-negative coccobacilli bacteria that affect some animals and humans. The disease affects livestock production and human health in developing countries and creates trade barriers and economic losses for the goat industry. The study’s aim was estimation of Brucellosis prevalence in goats and to ascertain the risk factors influencing its occurrence in South West Somalia. The area of study was in three districts each in Lower-Shabelle region (Afgoye, Qoryoley and Walaweyn) and Bay region while those in Bay (Baidoa, Diinsor and Burhakaba) of South West state in Somalia. A cross-sectional survey design that involved collecting and managing 207 serum samples of blood from goats and administering a questionnaire to herders with an aim to assess the risk features that led to infection of goat with Brucellosis. Only adult volunteers participated in the study and their privacy and confidentiality were protected. Required sample size was obtained by selecting twenty households from each district using systematic sampling. Serum was obtained from the blood samples collected after allowing it to stand. Analysis of samples was by Rose Bengal Plate test. Data was analyzed using SPSS for statistical analysis, including univariate and multivariate logistic regression models. The study results indicated greater sero-prevalence of brucellosis in females (5.2%) more than male goats (2.9%) and in goats aged 48 months (10%) than in goats aged 13-24 months (2.6%). Afgoi had the highest prevalence (6.45%), followed by Baidoa, Wanlaweyn, Qoryoley and Diinsor. The predisposing factors significant (p<0.05) to Brucella infection in goats included cases of abortion (OR = 2.99), and free contact of x goats in communal grazing and drinking water (OR = 1.35). Others are new entries of flock into the farms (OR = 1.33), sharing of communal bucks for breeding (OR = 1.01), knowledge of brucellosis (OR = 1.29) and seeking veterinary services (OR = 1.23). Abortion, free contact of goats in communal grazing and drinking water, new entries of flock into the farms and knowledge of brucellosis were also important risk factors in the multivariate logistic regression. Additionally, the common practices that posed a risk for transmission of Brucellosis to humans were assisting animals during birth, not washing hands with soap after delivery and handling aborted foetuses. The practices of ‘sharing of communal bucks for breeding’ and ‘seeking veterinary services’ were not significant due to confounding factors. Failure to wear gear that offers protection including gloves while attending to animals in birth and handling aborted fetuses may increase the infection risk with Brucella organisms. Likewise, poor disposal of aborted foetuses, slaughtering goats at home, consuming raw meat and milk and inadequate knowledge of brucellosis can bring spreading of infection. This study recommends managing livestock migration, doing private grazing and disseminating knowledge to the communities about the disease. New animals should be introduced to household flocks cautiously by ensuring that they are from brucellosis free herds and isolation should be done for screening, while intermingling of herds should be restricted. Control measures such as animal vaccinations and public education on proper handling and disposal of aborted foetuses during birth should be done