Seroprevalence and risk factors of brucellosis in livestock in the wildlife and livestock interface area of Similipal Biosphere Reserve, India

Background and Aim: Brucellosis is an important zoonotic disease that affects fertility in farm animals. The risk factors of brucellosis have not been well studied. This study aimed to understand the seroprevalence and risk factors of brucellosis among livestock in Bangriposi block of Mayurbhanj district in Odisha, a region that borders Similipal wildlife reserve. Materials and Methods: Rose Bengal plate test (RBPT) was carried out to estimate the seroprevalence of the livestock in this region. Bivariate analysis was carried out to analyze the association between the variables and brucellosis. Binary logistic regression was performed to assess the risk factors associated with brucellosis in the livestock. Results: Based on RBPT, the seroprevalence of brucellosis among cattle and goats was estimated to be 1.1% and 11.2%, respectively. Binary logistic regression analysis indicates that study area, age, goats, animals with a history of abortion, and rearing practices were the major risk factors in this region. Conclusion: This is one of the first studies in India to shed light on risk factors of brucellosis, an important neglected disease that affects the health of animals and humans and nation's economy.