PREVALENCE OF HUMAN BRUCELLOSIS IN PAKISTAN SINCE 2021 TO 2024

Abstract

Background: Brucellosis is a highly infectious zoonotic disease caused by Brucella species, affecting both humans and animals globally. It remains a significant public health concern, particularly in regions with extensive livestock farming and close human-animal interactions. The disease manifests as fever, fatigue, joint pain, and severe complications such as endocarditis and neurological disorders. Despite being endemic in many developing countries, brucellosis often remains underreported due to inadequate surveillance and diagnostic challenges. Pakistan, with its large livestock population, is at high risk, necessitating comprehensive epidemiological assessment.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and distribution of human brucellosis in Pakistan from 2021 to 2024, utilizing national surveillance data to identify high-burden regions and inform future control strategies.

Methods: A retrospective study was conducted using secondary data obtained from the National Institute of Health – Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (NIH-IDSR). All reported human brucellosis cases from January 2021 to May 2024 were included. Data were analyzed to determine prevalence trends across different provinces. Statistical assessments included descriptive analysis, prevalence calculations, and trend evaluation over time.

Results: A total of 1,171 cases of brucellosis were reported across Pakistan from 2021 to 2024. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had the highest burden with 678 cases (57.9%), followed by Balochistan with 376 cases (32.1%) and Sindh with 111 cases (9.5%). Minimal cases were recorded in Gilgit Baltistan (3 cases) and Azad Jammu & Kashmir (3 cases). No cases were reported in Punjab. The highest annual incidence was in 2023, with 913 cases, accounting for 78% of all reported cases.

Conclusion: This study highlights the significant burden of human brucellosis in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, emphasizing the need for improved surveillance, vaccination programs, and public health interventions. The absence of reported cases in Punjab may indicate effective control measures or potential underreporting. Strengthening disease monitoring and preventive strategies is essential to reducing brucellosis transmission in high-risk regions.