Sero-prevalence of brucellosis among clinically suspect human cases presenting at health facilities in Namibia from 2012 to 2017

Abstract

OBJECTIVE : This study estimated seroprevalence among human patients presenting with brucellosis-like symptoms in Namibia using serological test results from 2012-2017. METHODS : Presumptive cases were screened using a brucellosis commercial agglutination test kit. RESULTS : Apparent prevalence of human brucellosis was 11.64% (113/971, 95% CI: 9.77-13.81), while active infections were estimated at 6.90% (67/971, 95% CI: 5.47-8.67). Seropositive cases were clustered in the 30-40 year age group, and in females (64%) than males (36%) (z = -5.24, p < 0.01). Age (RR: 0.980 95% CI: 0.907-1.05) and gender (RR: 0.800, 95% CI: 0.598-1.069) were not risk factors for Brucella infection.