Seroprevalence, Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP), and Public Health Implications of Bovine Brucellosis in West Hararghe Zone, Oromia Regional State, Eastern Ethiopia

Bovine brucellosis is a bacterial disease that affects both cattle and humans. This study aimed to estimate the seroprevalence of bovine brucellosis in four districts of West Harerghe zone, Eastern Ethiopia, using mRBPT and I-ELISA tests. The study was conducted from July 2024 to February 2025 G.C. using a cross-sectional design and random sampling. A total of 384 cattle of local breeds were sampled from two extensive and two semi-intensive management systems. The overall individual animal seroprevalence was 3.9% by mRBPT and 3.1% by I-ELISA. The seroprevalence was higher in the extensive (2.9%) than in the semi-intensive (0.3%) management system. Larger herd sizes, older age groups, females, lowland agroecology, and pastoral production systems were associated with higher seroprevalence. A structured questionnaire was used to interview 100 cattle owners to assess their (KAP) regarding bovine brucellosis and its public health importance. The results showed that 80% of the respondents had no information about brucellosis, 73% had risk practices, and 83% had negative attitudes, which could facilitate the transmission of brucellosis between cattle and humans. Our findings suggest that bovine brucellosis is prevalent in the study area and poses a significant zoonotic risk. We recommend implementing control measures to prevent the spread of the disease and to raise awareness among cattle owners and consumers.