European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

SEROPREVALENCE OF BRUCELLOSIS AMONG PEOPLE RESIDING IN THE RURAL AREAS OF WESTERN IRAQ

*Mustafa Sayel Mayyah and 2Dr. Saadi Shakir Mahmoo

ABSTRACT

This study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence of human brucellosis and identify the potential risk factors in a rural area of western part of Iraq. A simple random-sampling method was used for identifying 800 subjects for the study. Blood samples, collected from all the subjects, were studied following the methods of Rose Bengal slide agglutination and standard tube agglutination tests. More than 95% were seronegative, and 38 (4.75%) were seropositive. There was a statistically significant correlation between seropositivity and age. Sex, consuming fresh cheese and cream made from unboiled milk. Seropositivity was not related to educational level. It can be concluded from this study that pasteurization of milk and dairy products and education regarding eating habits must be pursued for eradication of human brucellosis from rural areas. The findings of the study suggest that human brucellosis is still an important public-health problem in the western parts of Iraq, especially in rural areas.

Keywords: Brucella: Brucellosis: Seroepidemiologic studies; Iraq.