Seroprevalence of chlamydial infection in dairy goats in Shaanxi Province, Northwestern China

Abstract

The prevalence of chlamydial infection in dairy goats in Shaanxi province, Northwestern China was determined by indirect hemagglutination antibody (IHA) on serum samples from 729 dairy goats (263 Saanen dairy goats and 466 Guanzhong dairy goats). Antibodies to Chlamydophila sp. were detected in 21 (2.88%) serum samples, with antibody titers ranging from 1:16 to 1:64. Seropositive goats were found only in three (Zhuangli town, Wangliao town and Yangling district) of the nine locations/herds examined in six counties. The prevalence of chlamydial infection was significantly related with locations/herds (χ2 = 54.36, P = 0.00) and breeds (χ2 = 56.50, P = 0.00). Both Saanen and Guanzhong dairy goats were positive for chlamydial infection, with higher seroprevalence in Saanen dairy goats (5.70%, 15/263) than that in Guanzhong dairy goat (1.29%, 6/466). The results of the present study indicate that more integrated strategies should be carried out to prevent and control chlamydiosis in goats in Shaanxi province.

Key words: Seroprevalence, chlamydial infection, dairy goats, Shaanxi Province, Northwestern China.