By Muhammad Moaaz and Faiza Shaukat,KBCMA, Narowal Sub-campus, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (UVAS), Lahore.
Muhammad Ammar, Wuhan Institute of Virology, CAS, China.
An extensive study conducted in the Muzaffargarh district of south Punjab has put a spotlight on camels which are increasingly becoming victims of Brucellosis, a zoonotic disease that also affects humans, while earlier research in Pakistan has been overlooking camels in this regard.
During the study, 387 serum samples, collected from both male and female camels, underwent testing through Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT). Approximately 0.51 percent of these samples tested seropositive by RBPT, while none returned positive results through PCR.
Interestingly, all seropositive camels were adult females aged above six years. The research highlights that age and sex are not the primary factors associated with disease spread; rather, common watering points such as ponds show a significant correlation with the prevalence of the disease.
Similar trends were observed in other regions of Pakistan, with varying rates of Brucellosis affecting camels. In Karachi, the prevalence stood at approximately 1.8pc, while in Faisalabad, it reached 9.03pc. Rajan Pur and Rahim Yar Khan districts reported rates of 13.16pc and 3.12pc, respectively, and Jhang recorded around 3.54pc.
Brucellosis, caused by gram-negative bacteria of the genus Brucella, poses serious health risks to camels. Clinical symptoms include reproductive losses such as abortion, stillbirth, and infertility in both male and female camels.
In its early stages, brucellosis mimics flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, sweats, fatigue, and muscle aches. Left untreated, it can lead to chronic joint and muscle pain and even affect the respiratory system, liver, spleen, or heart.
The socio-economic impact of Brucellosis on camel owners in pastoral and rural communities of Pakistan is substantial. Previous studies indicate its endemic presence in livestock farms with increasing prevalence rates.
Various risk factors contribute to the transmission of brucellosis in animals, including contact with infected animals, contaminated environments, poor hygiene, and inadequate vaccination. Wildlife reservoirs can also play a role in disease spread.
Preventative measures for brucellosis in camels include vaccination, quarantine and testing of new camels, biosecurity practices, hygiene maintenance, vector control, culling infected animals, education and training, monitoring and surveillance, and proper record keeping. Collaboration with veterinarians and adherence to local regulations are vital in disease management.
The human health implications of brucellosis in camels include zoonotic transmission, flu-like symptoms, chronic infections, and occupational risks. Prevention measures like vaccination and pasteurization of camel products are crucial to protect public health.
Brucellosis in camels poses a multifaceted challenge in Pakistan, impacting both animal and human health. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach that considers the economic implications, zoonotic risks, and collaboration between veterinary, medical, and public health authorities. Emphasizing prevention measures and adopting a One Health approach are essential to mitigate the impact of this disease on camels and the wider community.
