Sero-Survey of Leptospira spp serovar hardjo among Cattle Slaughtered at Katsina Central Abattoir, Katsina State, Nigeria

Abstract

Leptospirosis is a globally distributed zoonotic disease caused by Leptospira species (primarily serovar hardjo), posing significant threats to livestock industries and public health. This study investigated the seroprevalence of Leptospira hardjo infection among cattle slaughtered at Katsina Central abattoir. A total of 179 blood samples were aseptically collected from the jugular veins of various cattle breeds (Red Bororo, Sokoto Gudali, and White Fulani) using anticoagulant-free vacutainers thrice weekly. The samples were centrifuged to separate sera, followed by analysis using an indirect Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) based on the manufacturer’s protocol (ELISA Bovicheck® Lepto HP, Bioveta, Canada). Optical density readings were obtained using an ELISA reader. The overall prevalence of Leptospira spp. serovar hardjo was 16.2% (29/179). Bulls exhibited a higher prevalence (20%) compared to cows (14.3%), although no significant difference was observed between sexes (p > 0.05). Age-specific prevalence indicated that younger cattle were more exposed; however, statistical associations were not significant (p > 0.05). Breed-specific prevalence revealed higher rates in White Fulani cattle (20.8%), followed by Sokoto Gudali (20%) and Red Bororo (12.9%), with no statistically significant association between breed and infection (p > 0.05). This study concludes that cattle in Katsina Central abattoir are exposed to Leptospira spp. infection. The presence of leptospirosis among these cattle poses occupational hazards to abattoir workers and threatens livestock production while having significant public health implications due to its zoonotic potential.