Sero-epidemiological study of brucellosis in small ruminants and associated human beings in district Quetta, Balochistan

Brucellosis is an occupational hazard in animal handlers and medical practitioners. This study was aimed to estimate the sero-prevalence of brucellosis in goats, sheep and butchers (slaughterhouse worker) in Quetta and its suburb. A total of 530 peripheral blood samples were collected randomly from goats (n=250), sheep (n=250) and butchers (n=30). The serum samples were subjected for Rose Bengal Precipitation Test and Slide Agglutination Test, whereas hematological test was performed for (n=30) samples collected from slaughterhouse workers. Butchers were interviewed with the help of a predesigned questionnaire. Results showed that the overall prevalence of brucellosis in the area was about 3.4 % out of 530 serum samples. The antibody titer through SAT for Barbari breed was ranging 1:525 to 1:2625. For Khurasani and Mengali breeds, it was 1:125. In Complete Blood Count leukopenia was detected (WBC<4300/mm) 21/30 (70 %), anemia 21/30 (70 %) thrombocytopenia (Platelets <150.000/mm) within samples of butchers. Hemoglobin deficiency (HGB< 12mg/dl) 24/30 (80%) were found. It is concluded that brucellosis is more prevalent in female animals as compared to males. Barbari, Khurasani and Lehri breeds in goats and Mengali, Shinwari and Bibrik in sheep were more affected by brucellosis. Although insignificant association between prevalence of brucellosis in sheep and goat (P <0.05) was observed. Butchers and slaughter house workers are found to be at high risk due to their low immunity level.