Prevalence of human brucellosis in Ethiopia: systematic review and meta-analysis

Brucellosis is a significant public health challenge in Ethiopia, which is characterized by a high prevalence among humans. The disease is primarily transmitted through the consumption of unpasteurized dairy products, direct contact with infected animals, or inhalation of contaminated aerosols. In addition to its impact on human health, brucellosis imposes substantial economic burdens. However, existing epidemiological studies provide inconsistent prevalence estimates, underscoring the need for a more comprehensive and systematic analysis of the disease's burden and associated risk factors in Ethiopia. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to generate representative data on the prevalence of human brucellosis in Ethiopia. We searched databases like PubMed and Science Direct for articles published between 2007 and 2022. The analysis included 26 studies covering 5,718 human serum samples. The Complement Fixation Test served as the confirmatory diagnostic test. The results suggest a relatively high seroprevalence of human brucellosis in Ethiopia, with an overall pooled prevalence of 14.0% (95% CI: 10.23, 18.12). Prevalence varied significantly across regions, with the highest observed in Afar (24.21%) and the lowest in Oromia (7.75%). Substantial heterogeneity was observed (I² = 97.64%), suggesting significant variations in prevalence across regions and over time. Additionally, the analysis suggests a possible increasing trend in prevalence over the years. Human brucellosis is a significant health concern in Ethiopia, and further research is crucial for effective prevention and control. The higher prevalence than previously reported in meta-analyses underscores the urgent need for intervention strategies from policymakers, such as the Ministry of Health. Identifying risk factors associated with human brucellosis is essential for implementing effective control measures. Prioritizing brucellosis prevention and control is vital for ensuring public health and well-being. Prospero registration number: CRD42022350237.