Serological and Molecular Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors in Caprine Brucellosis, Northeastern Thailand

Abstract

Brucellosis is a significant zoonotic disease with global implications for animal and human public health. This study investigated the prevalence of caprine brucellosis in 39 meat goat herds in northeastern Thailand using serological and molecular methods. Seroprevalence, determined by the modified Rose Bengal test (mRBT), was negative, indicating no detectable antibodies against Brucella. However, real-time PCR identified Brucella spp. DNA in 11 samples from 8 herds. Intraherd prevalence varied from 0.0% to 9.09%, averaging 6.73% (95% CI, 4.74–8.72). Univariate analysis revealed significant risk factors associated with brucellosis at the herd level. Larger herd size correlated with increased brucellosis odds ratio (OR: 6.30; 95% CI: 1.07–36.93; p=0.041). Herds with multiple reproductive failures, including abortion, repeat breeding, and sterile, together with weak offspring, showed higher prevalence (OR: 9.37; 95% CI: 1.17–74.84; p=0.034). Multivariable analysis identified herd sizes over thirteen as a significant risk factor (OR: 10.20; 95% CI: 1.06–97.40; p=0.044). Notably, herds where owners were aware of direct transmission risks exhibited lower infection rates (OR: 0.05; 95% CI: 0.006–0.54; p=0.012). This study underscores the complementary role of molecular techniques alongside serological tests in detecting Brucella infection accurately. The findings highlight the importance of effective herd management, reproductive health monitoring, and owner education in mitigating brucellosis transmission. Implementing robust control measures, including stringent biosecurity protocols and enhanced stakeholder awareness, is crucial for controlling brucellosis in meat goat populations.