Molecular and serological study of caprine and ovine brucellosis in district Peshawar

Brucellosis is an infectious disease of livestock and wild animals and is the second most important zoonotic disease after rabies throughout the world. Brucellosis in small ruminants is mainly caused by B. melitensis and in bovines it is caused by B. abortus while B. melitensis is also the causative agent of brucellosis in humans. This study was designed to investigate the prevalence of brucellosis in small ruminants of District Peshawar. A total of 300 blood samples (150 each from sheep and goats) were randomly collected and screened through Rose Bengal Plate Test (VRI and UK Antigens), ELISA and PCR. Over all prevalence was 4.33% through RBPT (VRI), 3.67% through RBPT (UK) and ELISA while 3.3% through PCR. Species wise prevalence of brucellosis was higher in goats as compared to sheep but no statistical significance (P>0.05) was recorded. Similarly, brucellosis was noted comparatively higher in female but statistically no significant relation was observed. Reproductive tract of the female is the potential reservoir of bacteria and can easily propagate and cause disease. Mal husbandry practices, overcrowding and use of brucellosis affected or carrier male animals for breeding purpose may lead to a higher prevalence of brucellosis in animals. Results of the study revealed that serological tests i.e. Rose Bengal Plate Test and ELISA are reliable and can be used in combination with PCR for confirmation of brucellosis.