Evaluation of the implementation of the bovine brucellosis control program in Manabi Province, Ecuador

Abstract

In order to assess the level of implementation of the National Program for Bovine Brucellosis control in the province Manabí, an epidemiological survey was conducted in 20 affected and 20 not affected herds selected randomly from November 2014 to March 2015. The elements taken into account for evaluation were: use of vaccination, veterinary care, systematic serological test, elimination of positive reactors, epidemiological surveillance, sanitary control of entry and exit of animals, biosecurity, and sanitary education. From the data obtained, the compliance percentage of the different aspects covered by the program was calculated, and the level of application between the affected and unaffected herds were compared using the Chi-square test and the statistical package online VassarStats.net. In the unaffected herd, it was evident a better performance (p £ 0,05) of the indicators veterinary care and research of animals before they entered the herd. It was also observed that 100% of the vaccinated herds were not affected by the disease. The study showed that in Manabí province there is a low level of compliance with the measures contained in the control program of bovine brucellosis, something that happens more markedly in those herds affected by the disease.

Key words: brucellosis, control, prevention, cattle.