Seroprevalence of Brucellosis in Cattle in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria

This study determines the seroprevalence of bovine brucellosis in cattle populations across selected local government areas in Plateau State, located in Nigeria's North Central geopolitical zone. Brucellosis, caused by Brucella abortus, is an economically devastating disease in cattle, causing reproductive failure, abortions, and infertility, and poses a significant zoonotic risk to farmers, veterinary personnel, and consumers of unpasteurised animal products. A cross-sectional serological survey was conducted involving 240 cattle from 12 herds across four local government areas selected to represent diverse management systems. Blood samples were collected and sera tested using the Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT) as a screening assay, with positive samples confirmed by the Serum Agglutination Test (SAT). Data on herd management, cattle movement, and reproductive history were obtained through farmer interviews. Findings revealed an overall individual seroprevalence of 14.6 percent and a herd-level prevalence of 58 percent, indicating widespread brucellosis exposure in the study population. Female animals with a history of abortion showed significantly higher seroprevalence than non-aborting females. Herds practising communal grazing and purchasing animals from open markets without veterinary certification had higher seroprevalence rates. The study recommends a structured test-and-slaughter programme for confirmed positive animals, restrictions on animal movement without testing, and vaccination of replacement heifers with RB51 vaccine where feasible. Keywords: brucellosis, seroprevalence, cattle, Plateau State, zoonosis.