East African Journal of Science, Technology and Innovation, Vol. 3 (2)
Brucellosis is among the most common bacterial zoonotic diseases worldwide. It is estimated that up to
500,000 new human cases occur each year. Brucellosis is a priority zoonosis in most East African countries.
In Tanzania, the disease is one of six priority zoonoses, however, little disease burden information is
available especially in children. Children are of particular interest especially in pastoral communities due
to increased risk of exposure in their routine activities associated with handling of livestock and their
products. This study investigated brucellosis exposure status and associated risk factors among non-febrile
children in pastoral communities. A cross-sectional design was used involving a total of 361 non-febrile
children of six months to 14 years old, randomly selected from households and schools. Risk practices were
evaluated using focus group discussions among selected children and thematic analysis was performed.
Serum samples were collected and analyzed using Rose Bengal Test (RBT) and indirect Enzyme-Linked
Immunosorbent Assay (iELISA) in parallel. The overall seroprevalence of Brucella infection was 3.3%
(95%CI, 2%-5%) determined by both RBT and iELISA. Risk practices observed and cited by children
comprised of direct and indirect contact with animals and their products. These include: consumption of
raw milk and their products, unhygienic handling of animals and their waste especially assisting cows
during parturition. Girls/female respondents were more likely to test brucella positive than boys (male)
respondents (2.23 OR, 95%CI 66%-754%). Brucellosis among non-febrile children in the study area was
present at a relatively low prevalence. Risk practices for transmission of this zoonosis were also identified
which included consumption of raw milk, contact with animals, their products and discharges including
abortion materials which represent the basis for increased pathogen circulation in the area. General
education on the epidemiology of brucellosis and prevention of infection spread should be provided to the
community including children.