SEROPREVALENCE OF BRUCELLOSIS IN SMALL RUMINANTS (SHEEP AND GOATS) KEPT IN RESIDENTIAL AREAS IN THE UNIVERSITY OF MAIDUGURI.

ABSTRACT This study investigated the occurrence of brucellosis in small ruminants reared at residential areas in University of Maiduguri. A total of 196 samples were collected and analyzed using standard microbiological techniques. The results revealed a high prevalence of Enterobacteriaceae across all sources, with an overall prevalence of 88.8%. Rare Enterobacteriaceae were detected in 11.2% of the samples, with the highest prevalence found in animal samples. The study also investigated the relationship between age, sex, breed, and body condition and the presence of Enterobacteriaceae and rare Enterobacteriaceae. The results showed that younger animals, particularly those under one year, were more susceptible to rare Enterobacteriaceae. The study also found that sheep were more susceptible to rare Enterobacteriaceae than goats. The study revealed that the prevalence of Enterobacteriaceae and Rare Enterobacteriaceae varied significantly among different breeds of small ruminants. The Uda and Balami breeds showed higher prevalence rates of Rare Enterobacteriaceae, while the Sahel and Yankasa breeds had significantly lower rates. The study also found that the body condition of small ruminants was not a significant factor in determining their susceptibility to Rare Enterobacteriaceae. The study recommends the implementation of effective disease management strategies, including the use of alternative antimicrobials and improved hygiene practices, to reduce the prevalence of Enterobacteriaceae and Rare Enterobacteriaceae in small ruminants.