a cross-sectional study of the seroprevalence and flock-level factors associated with ovine and caprine brucellosis in southeastern iran

this cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate seroprevalence and to identify flock-level factors associated with seropositivity to brucellosis in small ruminants in kerman province, southeastern iran. in october-november 2011, serum samples were randomly collected from 1767 sheep and 1233 goats, older than 18 months, from 300 flocks. the sera were initially screened for the presence of anti-brucella antibodies using the rose-bengal test; those found to be positive were then examined by wright and2-mercaptoethanol brucella agglutination tests. a questionnaire was used to collect data on flock-level factors likely associated with the within flock seroprevalence of brucellosis. the associations were statistically evaluated for significance in multivariable logistic models. sixty three flocks (21.00%; 95% ci: 16.80-26.60) had at least one seropositive animal. the mean within-flock seroprevalence was 3.10% (95% ci: 2.60-3.90). the presence of newly purchased animals (or=3.42; 95% ci: 1.35-8.65) was significantly associated with seropositivity. our findings highlight the role of animal movement among flocks in the epidemiology of brucellosis in this region. thus, a control program for brucellosis in the region is suggested to impose appropriate restrictions on animal trade and improve knowledge of livestock owners about quarantine principles for newly purchased animals.