Determination of Brucella spp. infection in dogs from the Tapirapé indigenous population in Confresa municipality, Mato Grosso State, Brazil

Abstract

The objective of the present study is to evaluate the occurrence of Brucella spp. in dogs from Tapirapé indigenous population, in Confresa municipality, Mato Grosso State, Brazil. Whole blood and serum samples were collected from 200 dogs. The detection of anti-rough Brucella antibodies will be performed using the agar gel immunodiffusion test (AGID). The detection of anti-smooth Brucella antibodies will be performed using tamponed acidified antigen test (AAT) and the 2-mercaptoetanol (2-ME). The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) will be used to the detection of Brucella spp. in whole blood samples. Information about brucellosis occurrence in dogs from indigenous population is relevant since Brucella spp. is a zoonotic agent with importance for domestic animal health and public health. If necessary, brucellosis control strategies may be suggested to the authorities responsible for public health, like the Brazilian National Health Foundation and the National Indian Foundation. (AU)