SEROPREVALENCE OF BRUCELLOSIS IN CAMEL AND HUMAN AND ASSESSMENT OF COMMUNITY KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE TOWARDS ITS ZOONOTIC IMPORTANCE IN BORANA ZONE, DIRE DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA

Abstract

Brucellosis is an important zoonotic disease of domesticated animals and humans that can also affect wildlife. The disease is caused by Gram-negative bacteria of the genus Brucella; hence, reliable information is needed to know the contribution of these bacteria in causing of diseases both in human and camels for its optimal prevention and control of diseases. The cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2023-March 2024 in dire district of Borena zone. The aim was to assess seroprevalence of brucellosis in camels and human with assessment of community knowledge, attitudes and practices towards its zoonosis. Multistage sampling method was used. Out of 230 camels and 195 human samples examined 18(7.8%) and 11(4.8%) were found positive by RBPT and using Indirect- ELISA in camel while 15(7.7%) and 6(3.1%) in human respectively. As a result, the over-all sero prevalence of brucellosis 4.8% in camel and 3.1% in human were indicated in the current study. Based on univariate logistic regression sex, history of abortion and placental retention were showed significant association (p<0.05) with brucellosis seropositivity in camel while consumed raw milk and positive animals at house hold were showed significant association (p<0.05) with brucellosis seropositivity in human. By multivariate logistic regression sex and parity number were showed significant association in camel while positive animals at household was showed significant association with brucellosis seropositivity in human. Even though, most of the considered risk factors didn’t show statistically significant association with brucellosis seroprevalence in humans, peoples are practicing the common risk factors and the existence of Brucella antigen has confirmed in both animals and human. In questionnaire survey it was indicated that, majority of the respondent practiced common risk factors supposed to expose them to the disease due to their poor knowledge about brucellosis, the nature of their life style and practices. Therefore; Active assessment and surveillance studies, Enhancing awareness level of pastoral society, one health approach and standard medication for seropositive cases are highly advisable to minimize risk in study area