Prevalence of bovine tuberculosis in Kaduna central abattoir, Kaduna State, Nigeria

Abstract

Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) caused by Mycobacterium bovis is a chronic infectious and contagious disease of domestic and wild animals, as well as humans. The disease has been reported in various livestock species in Nigeria. The aim of the study was therefore to determine the prevalence and epidemiological factors of Mycobacterium species infection in slaughtered cattle at the Kaduna Central Abattoir, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Lesions were determined by observation/palpation for nodules in the predilection organs and further use of acid-fast stain test on such lesions. The study showed an overall prevalence of 14% by acid fast staining and 17% by the presence of lesions. Among the Breed prevalence was 57.1% (White Fulani), 23.2% (Sokoto Gudali) and 19.6% (Red Bororo). Sex prevalence was 48.2% and 51.8% for cows and bulls, respectively. Age prevalence was 17.9% and 82.1% for <4 year-old and >4year-old, respectively. Detection of lesions of bTB in slaughtered cattle poses a public health risk. This study has added useful epidemiological information on bTB infection in cattle slaughtered at Kaduna Central Abattoir. Enhanced public education and awareness campaigns should be carried out among meat handlers and abattoir workers, especially on the mode of transmission, aetiology, and public health importance of bTB. There is the need to conduct molecular detection of the actual Mycobacterium species infecting cattle, other domestic animals and humans with a view to fully understand the status of bTB in Kaduna State, Nigeria.