OCORRÊNCIA DE AGLUTININAS ANTI - Brucella abortus EM REBANHOS BOVINOS DA ILHA DE SÃO LUÍS - MA

We evaluated the occurrence of Brucella abortus in cattle herds of small farms on the island of Sao Luis, Maranhao. A total of 445 serum samples were collected and assessed by buffered acidified antigen (AAT) and 2-mercaptoethanol (2-ME) tests. Data was analysed based on parameters established by the National Program for Control and Eradication of Brucellosis and Tuberculosis (PNCEBT), and the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply (MAPA). Results revealed that most of the samples (429) were tested negative (96,40%). A total of 16 samples (3,60%) were reactive, of which 9 (2,00%) were detected in the municipality of Sao Jose de Ribamar, and 7 (1,60%) in Paco do Lumiar. This finding indicates significant correlation (p 0,05) were evidenced for other variables, such as sex, breeding system, type of farm, acquisition of animals without a health certificate of brucellosis negative, and low frequency of testing and vaccination. We conclude that most producers are not aware of the health risk involved with brucellosis, both for animals and humans.