Molecular diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis in bovine and human samples: implications for zoonosis

To develop emerging diagnostic technique for bovine tuberculosis and to identify its potential risk factors.

Bacterial genomic DNA was isolated from bovine milk and human sputum samples and subjected to PCR using specific primer pairs. PCR results were validated using bacteriological cultures.

PCR amplification of the targeted DNA fragment of Mycobacterium bovis was successful in 12.33% (37/300) of the bovine samples. Interestingly, 500-bp DNA fragment was also amplified in 6.67% (6/90) of the sputum indicating the possibility of zoonotic transmission. Rearing of livestock in household, unpasteurized milk consumption and smoking were identified as potential risk factors.

Results of the study may add value to bovine tuberculosis eradication campaigns to achieve the One Health initiative.