Screening for human brucellosis in Sohag farms

Abstract EN

Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease that exists worldwide.

Several studies were conducted in different governorates e.g.

Menofia, Dakahlia, Giza, Assiut to estimate the prevalence of brucellosis but little is known about the problem in Sohag governorate.

Our aim was to estimate the frequency of brucellosis in farm workers in Sohag governorate using ELISA test and to treat positive cases.

Patients and Methods: The study involved 141 persons.

Ninety one persons from 3 farms in Sohag governorate (high risk group) and 50 persons who have no contact to animals (control).

Through this study complete clinical examination, ultrasound examination, complete blood count and ELISA test for brucellosis were done to all persons.

Results: The frequency of seropositivity to brucellosis was found to be 12% in the three farms as a whole (13.5% in Faculty of Agriculture farm, 13% in El Dyabat farm and 0% in Shandaweel).

Conclusion: Brucellosis is not uncommon among farm workers in Sohag governorate.

Animal vaccination and regular examination for detection of diseased animals is recommended.

Health education of workers is of great importance to minimize the transmission of the disease.