Incidence of Bovine Tuberculosis in Cross River State: A Retrospective Abattoir Study

Abstract

Abattoir records base on typical tuberculosis lesions for ten year (1991-20000) were collated and analyzed to determine the incidence of bovine tuberculosis in cattle slaughtered in three main abattoirs (Ogoja, Ikom and Bakoko) in the Northern, central
and Southern senatorial zones of Cross River State. Out of the 66,680 cattle slaughtered within the ten-year period, 1,497 representing 2.25% (23/1000/year) were found to have tuberculosis lesions. Tuberculosis lesions were observed at a higher proportion in the dry season 2.7% (27/1000/year) than in rainy season 2.0% (20/1000/year). The lesions were also observed more in the female (53.8%) animals than in the males (46.2%). The lungs were the most affected organ with 68.8% of cases while the oesophages was the least affected organ with 1.3% of the cases. In terms of geographical distribution Ogoja abattoir
in the Northern zone recorded the highest incidence (38/1000/yr) while Bakoko (Southern zone) recorded the least (12/1000/yr); the incidence rate in the Northern zone was three times (3-fold) that of the southern zone. Bovine tuberculosis in Cross River State is relatively high and could constitutes a public health hazard. Routine surveillance through meat inspection by professionals is recommended intervention programme.

Keywords: Tuberculosis, slaughter cattle, Cross River State, Nigeria

Sahel Journal of Veterinary Science Vol. 6 (1) 2007: pp. 39-43