Seroprevalence and Risk Factors for Brucella Infections in Jordan

• Published in: The American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene Vol. 107; no. 3; pp. 576 - 580
• Main Authors: Obaidat, Mohammad M., Malania, Lile, Arner, Ryan J., Roess, Amira A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Deerfield, Illinois Institute of Tropical Medicine 01.09.2022; The American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
• Subjects: Brucellosis; Milk; Risk factors; Serology
• ISSN: 0002-9637; 1476-1645
• DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.21-0952

Brucellosis is a significant zoonotic disease and is endemic in several regions of the world. This study is aimed to determine the nationwide spatial distribution, seroprevalence, and risk factors for Brucella infections in Jordan. Serum samples of 938 individuals from 11 governorates were tested for Brucella spp. antibodies using Rose Bengal and Brucellacapt ® tests. A validated questionnaire was used to collect demographic, animal ownership, and food consumption data. The seroprevalence of Brucella infection in Jordan’s population was 6.7% (95% CI, 5.2–8.5%). The multivariate model showed that location of residence, consuming raw milk/milk products, and owning small ruminants (goat and/or sheep) were significantly associated with seropositivity after controlling for age and gender. Individuals living in the northern Badia region had 8.82 greater odds (95% CI, 4.56–17.03) of seropositivity than individuals living in the Middle region of the country. Individuals who reported consumption of raw milk/milk products had 3.7 higher odds (95% CI, 2.01–6. 81) of seropositivity compared with individuals not consuming raw milk/milk products. In addition, individuals who own small ruminants (goat and/or sheep) had 2.14 higher odds (95% CI, 1.11–4.12) of seropositivity compared with individuals who do not own small ruminants. The identified geographic hotspots and small ruminants’ ownership, risk of raw milk products highlight the need for tailored training, education campaigns, and resources for controlling brucellosis in Jordan.