[Risk factors associated with the presence of brucellosis in mixed establishments (caprine and bovine) in the province of Formosa, Argentina].

Abstract

Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease with a worldwide distribution that causes significant productive losses and negative impacts on public health. The aim of this work was to identify the risk factors associated with the presence of brucellosis in mixed farms (cattle/goats) in the central-western region of the province of Formosa. Sixty seven mixed farms with 7,855 animals (2,943 cattle and 4,912 goats) were randomly sampled during 2022/2023. The samples were serologically analyzed (BPA + FPA) to determine which animals were positive. Likewise, in each farm, a confidential survey was carried out to evaluate potential associated variables. The statistical analysis was performed using Generalized Linear Mixed Models (GLMM) with binomial distribution, logarithmic link function, and farm as a random variable. The estimated prevalence of brucellosis in mixed farms was 9%, while the joint prevalence per animal (cattle and goats) was 2.75%. The prevalence of brucellosis in cattle and goats was explained by the presence of animals with reproductive signs (odds ratio, OR=40), the occurrence of abortions in the last term of gestation and the birth of weak offspring (OR=5.3), incorrect treatment of abortions (OR=8), the introduction of animals from other farms (OR=5.9), and not having a negative brucellosis certificate (OR=9.6). The management practices conducted in each farm such as preventive measures, sanitation practices for the pens, and prevention measures for the workers, are important for the control of brucellosis.