PREVALENCE OF BOVINE TUBERCULOSIS IN NILI RAVI BUFFALOES IN DISTRICT KASUR

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Bovine Tuberculosis (BTB) in Nili Ravi buffaloes in Kasur district, Punjab, Pakistan. A total of 350 buffaloes were sampled from August 2023 to April 2024, comprising 200 buffaloes from the Progeny Testing Program (PTP) and 150 random field samples. The Skin Tuberculin Test (TST) and Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) were employed to diagnose BTB. The overall prevalence of BTB was found to be 3.5%, with TST and ELISA indicating prevalence rates of 2.6% and 2.9%, respectively. The study also examined risk factors such as age and management practices. Although older buffaloes (>8 years) showed a higher prevalence compared to younger animals, the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). No significant difference in prevalence was observed between the PTP group and random field samples. The findings suggest that while BTB prevalence in Kasur district is relatively low, there is a need for ongoing surveillance and improved management practices. Variations in historical prevalence rates highlight the importance of continuous monitoring and targeted control measures. The study underscores the necessity of using multiple diagnostic methods and considering various risk factors to develop effective BTB control strategies.