Seroprevalence of Bovine Brucellosis in Cattle in District Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Brucellosis is an infectious and highly contagious zoonotic disease caused by species of the <i>Brucella</i> genus, and it holds significant economic and public health importance. This disease is endemic in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. Brucellosis primarily affects individuals who come into contact with animals or animal products, making it an occupational hazard. Various factors influence the prevalence of brucellosis; thus, seroprevalence studies are significant for diagnosis and determining control measures. This study aims to assess the prevalence of brucellosis in cattle in Bannu District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, using serological and molecular techniques. Altogether, 384 blood samples were collected from cattle and initially screened using the Rose Bengal plate test and indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A structured research proforma was used to analyze the association between infection and various risk factors. All positive samples were tested for pathogens using AMOS polymerase chain reaction. The overall prevalence of brucellosis was 18.75% through the Rose Bengal plate test and 8% by indirect ELISA. AMOS polymerase chain reaction confirmed the presence of <i>Brucella abortus</i> in four ELISA-positive animals. Statistical analysis using the chi-Square test revealed a significant association (<i>p</i> < 0.05) between brucellosis seroprevalence and risk factors such as grazing practices, breeding protocols, repeat breeding, and a history of abortion in cattle. Brucellosis in the study area raises serious concerns for animals and public health. The findings of this study will contribute to the development of effective prevention and control measures for the livestock population.