Bovine tuberculosis reactor cattle in Southwest Ethiopia: Risk factors for bovine tuberculosis

Bovine tuberculosis, caused by Mycobacterium bovis, is a chronic zoonotic disease that persists in Ethiopia despite global control efforts, impacting public health and the economy. However, little is known about the epidemiology of bovine tuberculosis in Southwest Ethiopia. This study aims to assess the prevalence of bovine tuberculosis and identify associated risk factors in dairy cattle. A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2022 to October 2023 in four districts in the Sheka, Bench-Sheko, and Keffa zones. A multistage sampling approach was employed, resulting in the selection of 1,152 cattle from various herds. Tuberculin skin testing was performed to detect bovine tuberculosis, and data on potential risk factors were collected through questionnaires. Logistic regression models were used to analyze the association between bovine tuberculosis and various risk factors. The overall prevalence of bovine tuberculosis was 4.95% at the cow level and 22.19% at the herd level in the study areas. Significant herd-level risk factors for bovine tuberculosis included lowland areas, larger herd sizes, and the introducing new animals. At the cow level, risk factors included age, breed, body condition, herd size, introduction of new animals, and management system. The study reveals a high prevalence of bovine tuberculosis in dairy cattle in Southwest Ethiopia, identifying key risk factors. Effective control requires targeted interventions, such as improved management practices, enhanced farmer awareness, and a better understanding of and guidance on bovine tuberculosis strategies in Ethiopia. Future research should isolate and characterize M. bovis in the study areas.