Session:

Tuberculosis & Other Mycobacterial Infections

Abstract No.:

47.017

Title:

Prevalence of Mycobacterium bovis infection in cattle and wildlife in Yankari Game Reserve in Bauchi state, Nigeria

Author(s):

M. Joseph; Ahmadu Bello University Zaria.Nigeria, Veterinary surgery and medicine, Zaria/NG

Abstract:

Background: Bovine tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium bovis is a chronic infectious disease affecting wide range of host, including domestic livestock, wildlife and humans, and is a major economic and public healthconcern. Presence of wildlife in several countries is a major obstacle to it's eradication. Due to paucity of information on the disaese in Yankari Game Reserve bring to fore the importance of this study. Yankari Game Reserve is Nigeria's biggest and popular destination of tourists in Nigeria.The game reserve is well stocked wirh different species of wildlfe and attracts tourists around the world.
Methods: Cattle herds in and around the game reserve were identified and randomly selected , their age,sex and breed were recorded.Blood sample was collected from animals above 6 months of age in the selected herds.Blood samples were collected from darted wildlife species during routine examintions in the study area. Serum sample was obtained by centrifugation.The serum was analyzed using Rapid bovine TB antibody test kits obtained from Anigen (Animal Genetic Inc) South Korea. Total samples collected and anlyzed
Results: Total sample collected were n=1000, comprising of cattle, n=750, and wildlife n=250.Of the 750 cattle analyzed 88 (11.73 %) were positive and 30 (12.0 %) were positive for wildlife. By sex reults showed males 19 (11.52 %) were positive and females 69 (11.79 %).Breeds, white fulani 80 (11.36 %), Sokoto Gudali 5 (18.52 %), Red Bororo 3 (15,79 %) were positive.Percentage positive by age; 6 months- 2 years 14 (11.76 %), 2-5 years 45 (12.53 %),> 5 years 29 (10.66 %).For wildlife n=250 were sampled and analyzed, 30 were positive. Zebra 6 (19.35 %), Eland,2 (10%),Antelopes 3 (7.6 %),Baboon 4 (10 %), Badgers 6(15 %), Hares 3(12 %) Grass cutters 6 (30 %).
Conclusion: These results showed that M. bovis affects both cattle and wildlife as aresult of possible contact between infected cattle and susceptible wildlife and vice versa. This could suggest a possible transmission between cattle and wildlife. Wildlife could be serving as reservour for bTB in cattle.