Seroprevalence of Brucellosis in Occupationally Exposed Humans in Quetta, Pakistan

Brucellosis is a worldwide zoonosis. It is transmitted by direct contact or consumption of contaminated unpasteurized dairy milk. A total of 193 sera were collected from occupationally exposed participants in Quetta, Pakistan and analyzed by Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT). An overall 4/193 (2.1%, CI 0.6-5.2) seropositive were found. A higher seropositive rate was found in participants with >40 years age, livestock contact, poor socioeconomic group and no raw milk consumption. All variables didn’t show statistical significance by Fischer’s exact test. Further epidemiological studies and awareness programs are recommended. Based on the results and review of the literature, the authors urge to consider higher age ≥40 years, direct contact and raw milk intake as risks for the infection.