Prevalence and treatment of camel mastitis in Afar, Ethiopia.

Abstract

Subclinical mastitis is a significant health concern in lactating camels, impacting milk production and pastoral livelihoods. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of subclinical mastitis and document traditional treatment practices among pastoralists in the Afar region, Ethiopia. A total of 384 purposively selected lactating camels were screened using the California Mastitis Test (CMT), and structured interviews were conducted with camel owners. The overall prevalence of subclinical mastitis was 60.2% (231/384), with a quarter-level prevalence of 27.6%. The right hind quarter was the most affected (40.4%). Pastoralists identified various clinical signs of udder infection, locally known as Samoboda, including udder swelling, changes in milk color, teat wounds, and reduced appetite. Traditional treatment practices involved the use of medicinal plants (Moyayto, Abar-haba, and Mus-uurruga), as well as methods such as cleaning with soap and salt, smearing with Darrita (soil), burning, hot metal branding, and manual drainage of swellings. The high prevalence of subclinical mastitis highlights the need for targeted interventions, including improved milking hygiene, routine health screenings, and effective tick control programs to enhance camel health and productivity in pastoral systems.