Working towards development of a sustainable brucellosis control programme, the Azerbaijan example

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Epidemiology
• Zoonotic Disease Control
• Public Health

Background:

• Brucellosis, caused by Brucella abortus and Brucella melitensis, is endemic in Azerbaijan.
• Fiscal, political, and technical challenges have hindered the development of a national control program.
• Previous control efforts have been limited in scope and sustainability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the epidemiology of brucellosis in animals and humans in Azerbaijan.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of vaccination strategies in small ruminants.
• To identify risk factors and protective measures for human brucellosis.

Main Methods:

• Conducted longitudinal epidemiologic studies from 2009 to 2020.
• Implemented vaccination programs using conjunctival Rev1 vaccine in sheep and goats.
• Performed case-control studies in animal flocks and seroprevalence surveys in humans.
• Collected data on farming practices, milk consumption, and demographic factors.

Main Results:

• Vaccination of sheep and goats led to a significant reduction in small ruminant brucellosis seroprevalence.
• Human brucellosis seroprevalence was 8.1%, with higher risk in farm-related occupations and males.
• Risk factors included keeping small ruminants, raw milk consumption, and animal slaughter.
• Awareness of brucellosis information and vaccination were protective in humans.

Conclusions:

• Conjunctival Rev1 vaccination is effective in reducing brucellosis in small ruminants.
• Human brucellosis is a significant public health concern in Azerbaijan, linked to animal husbandry and consumption of raw dairy products.
• Integrated control strategies, including vaccination and improved hygiene practices, are crucial for disease elimination.