Epidemiological Assessment of Human Brucellosis among Females in Malakand District, Pakistan Using Rapid Diagnostic Testing
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70749/ijbr.v4i3.2732Keywords:
Brucellosis, Brucella Abortus, Brucella Melitensis, Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT), Epidemiology, Malakand District.Abstract
Brucellosis is a significant zoonotic disease caused by bacteria of the genus Brucella, affecting both animals and humans. The disease remains endemic in many developing countries where livestock farming and close human-animal interaction are common. Limited diagnostic facilities and lack of awareness often lead to underreporting of cases, particularly in rural communities. The present study aimed to investigate the distribution of Brucella infection among female participants in Malakand district using rapid diagnostic testing. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 160 female participants from different areas of Malakand district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Blood samples were collected under aseptic conditions and tested using a Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) for the detection of antibodies against Brucella abortus and Brucella melitensis. Demographic information including age, residential area and test date was recorded. Data were organized in Microsoft Excel and graphical analysis was performed to evaluate age-wise, area-wise and temporal distribution of cases. Age distribution showed the highest number of cases in the 21-30-year group (93 cases), followed by 11-20 years (40 cases) and 31-40 years (27 cases). Spatial analysis indicated that Batkhela recorded the highest number of cases (35), followed by Chakdara (21) and Thana (20). Monthly analysis revealed a peak in August with 26 cases, indicating seasonal variation in infection occurrence. The study demonstrates that brucellosis remains a notable public health concern in rural areas with strong livestock interaction. Strengthening surveillance, promoting safe animal handling practices and improving public awareness may help reduce disease transmission.
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