Seroprevalence of brucellosis in small ruminants in pastoral areas of Oromia and Somali regional states, Ethiopia

A cross-sectional study was conducted from November, 2013 to April, 2014 in pastoral areas of Oromia and Somali regional states to determine the prevalence of brucellosis in small ruminants and assess associated risk factors. The multistage sampling technique was used on total population in the selected district during the study period. A total of 420 serum samples were collected from 129 sheep and 291 goats in extensive management system, with no previous vaccination history. Of 420 sera examined, 36 (8.5%) were positive to Rose Bengal plate test (RBPT). The sera screened positive by RBPT were retested using complement fixation test (CFT) and among 36 sera sample tested, 15 (3.6%) were positive for brucella antibodies. The prevalence of brucellosis among sheep and goats was found to be 2 (0.48%) and 13 (3.09%), respectively. The results of the present study showed that there was no significant difference in seroprevalence to Brucella antibodies and species, sex and age of the animals examined (p > 0.05). The occurrence of brucellosis among small ruminants in selected districts could pose productivity and reproductive problem in addition to public health risk. Thus, implementing control measures and raising public awareness on prevention methods of brucellosis should be suggested.   Key words: Brucellosis, complement fixation test, Ethiopia, Rose Bengal plate test, pastoral areas, small ruminant.