Brucellosis in Pastoralists and Livestock in South Sudan
Author Information
Author(s): Lita Emmanuel P., Ochi Erneo B., Misinzo Gerald, van Heerden Henriette, Katani Robab, Godfroid Jacques, Mathew Coletha
Primary Institution: Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania
Hypothesis
What is the seroprevalence of brucellosis among pastoralists and their livestock in Central Equatoria State, South Sudan?
Conclusion
Brucellosis is prevalent in cattle and goats in Central Equatoria State, South Sudan, with significant risk factors identified.
Supporting Evidence
- Seroprevalence of brucellosis was found to be 21.7% in cattle, 11.8% in goats, and 4.8% in humans.
- All sheep serum samples tested negative for brucellosis.
- Risk factors for cattle included sex, age, and abortion history.
- 100% seroprevalence was observed in Terekeka County cattle camps.
Takeaway
Brucellosis is a disease that can spread from animals to people, and this study found it in cattle and goats in South Sudan, but not in sheep.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study collected 986 sera from humans and livestock, testing for Brucella antibodies using RBPT and c-ELISA.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to the voluntary nature of participation and the limited geographical scope of the study.
Limitations
The cross-sectional design limits causal inference, and the small sample size of sheep affects generalizability.
Participant Demographics
143 pastoralists, predominantly male (91%), with a majority aged 18-25 years and lacking formal education.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 1.3–5.8
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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