Prevalence of Brucellosis Among Cattle in Selected Farms in Plateau State

Brucellosis is a major zoonotic disease with significant economic and public health implications in Nigeria. This study investigated the prevalence of Brucellosis among cattle in selected farms across Plateau State in the North Central geopolitical zone. A total of 120 blood samples were collected from cattle on six farms using simple random sampling. Serum was extracted and tested using the Rose Bengal Plate Test as the primary screening method, with positive samples confirmed through the Serum Agglutination Test. Structured interviews were conducted with farm owners and herdsmen to identify associated risk factors including herd size, contact with other livestock, and reproductive history. An overall seroprevalence of 18.3% was recorded, with female cattle showing significantly higher positivity than males. Farms with larger herd sizes and a history of abortion reported higher prevalence. Many farm workers reported no knowledge of brucellosis transmission to humans or of personal protective practices. The findings highlight a substantial reservoir of Brucella infection in the study area, posing risks to livestock productivity and human health among farmers and their families. The study recommends routine seromonitoring, vaccination campaigns using Brucella abortus S19 vaccine, and targeted health education for farming communities. Strengthened veterinary surveillance systems and interdepartmental collaboration between animal and human health agencies are also advocated. Keywords: brucellosis, seroprevalence, cattle, zoonosis, Plateau State