Seroprevalence of Leptospira interrogans ser. Bratislava in swine from Kaduna Metropolis, Kaduna State, Nigeria

Abstract

cross-sectional study was conducted in Kaduna metropolis in order to determine the seroprevalence of Leptospira interrogans serovar Bratislava in swine. A total of 270 swine blood samples were collected from farms and slaughterhouses in the different regions of the metropolis and were analyzed for leptospirosis using Indirect – ELISA. Out of the 270 serum samples examined, 118 (43.7%) of the samples were positive for Leptospira ser. Bratislava. Although samples from the slaughterhouses had a higher prevalence (52.50%) than that from the farms (40.0%), there was no statistically significant association between the source of the samples and the seropositivity (p = 0.149; X² = 2.385). Similarly, there was no statistically significant association in seroprevalence between the sexes of the swine and among the Local Government Areas within Kaduna metropolis from where swine were sampled. In conclusion, 43.7% pigs in Kaduna metropolis were positive for leptospiral infection which could constitute health risk to the farmers and slaughterhouse workers; hence there is need for an increased enlightenment campaign about the infection and its zoonotic implications among pig farmers and slaughterhouse workers.