Caprine Brucellosis: Seroprevalence, Risk Factors, Public Awareness and Zoonotic Implications in Pastoral and Agro-Pastoral Production Systems of Benatsemay District, Southern Ethiopia

Brucellosis is a neglected disease in Ethiopia that affects domestic ruminants, including goats, which play a crucial role in sustaining the livelihoods of pastoral and agro-pastoral communities in the Benatsemay district. Despite their economic and socio-cultural value, productivity and reproductive performances of goats are constrained by infectious diseases such as Brucella infection. Therefore, a cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2021 to February 2022 to estimate the seroprevalence of Brucella infection in goats, identify associated risk factors, and assess the knowledge, attitudes, and control practices of pastoral and agro-pastoral communities. A total of 390 sera samples were screened using Rose Bengal plate test (RBPT) and confirmed by complement fixation test (CFT) for caprine brucellosis. Simultaneously, 150 goat owners were surveyed to assess disease awareness and control practices. Of 390 sera samples, 22 (5.64%) were RBPT-positive, and 10 (2.56%) were confirmed by CFT. Thus, the overall Brucella seroprevalence was 2.56%. Multivariable logistic regression revealed that abortion, retained fetal membrane, and stillbirth were significantly associated with Brucella serostatus. The odds of infection were significantly higher in goats with a history of abortion (OR = 16.19, p < 0.05), retained fetal membranes (OR = 13.02, p < 0.05), and stillbirth (OR = 14.08, p < 0.05) compared with their respective reference categories. This study confirmed the presence of Brucella infection in the study area, as evidenced by seropositive goats. This not only threatens the health and productivity of the animals but also poses a potential risk to the people. The questionnaire survey revealed that 98.67% and 97.34% of respondents had poor knowledge about Brucella infection and its zoonotic significance, respectively. Therefore, an integrated One Health strategy targeting animals, humans, and the environment should be implemented in the study area.