Research in Uganda highlights need to focus on small ruminants in brucellosis prevention and control

Contrary to common belief, small ruminants (sheep and goats) are more susceptible to exposure to brucellosis compared to cattle and pigs, according to a new study from Uganda.

This is a concern in the country because mixed husbandry, the herding of small ruminants and cattle together, is widely practiced by smallholders.

‘The spread of brucellosis is also driven by transhumant movement of livestock keepers in search of water and pastures, which further facilitate mixing of herds particularly in hard-to-reach areas that lack adequate veterinary services,’ said James Bugeza, lead researcher at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)–led Boosting Uganda’s Investment in Livestock Development project, which carried out the study.