Abstract:
Background: Sheep pox and goat pox are contagious viral diseases of sheep and goats, respectively. The diseases
result in substantial economic losses due to decreased milk and meat production, damage to hides and wool, and
possible trade restriction. A study was undertaken in Amhara region of Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study design was
used to estimate the sero-prevalence and identify associated risk factors, while retrospective study design was used
to assess the temporal and spatial distribution of the disease. A total of 672 serum samples were collected from 30
Kebeles and tested using virus neutralization test.
Results: From a total of 672 sera tested, 104 (15.5%) were positive for sheep and goat pox virus antibody; from
which 56 (17%) were sheep and 48 (14%) were goats. The diseases were prevalent in all study zones, the highest
sero-prevalence was observed in South Gondar (20.9%) and the lowest in North Gondar and West Gojjam zones
(11.9% each). From the potential risk factors considered (species, sex, age, agro-ecology and location); only sex
and age were significantly associated (p < 0.05) with the diseases in multivariable logistic regression. Female and
young animals were at higher risk than their counterparts. From January 2010 to December 2014, a total of 366
outbreaks, 12,822 cases and 1480 deaths due to SP and 182 outbreaks, 10,066 cases and 997 deaths due to GP
were recorded in Amhara National Regional State.
Conclusion: Both the serological and the outbreak data revealed that sheep and goat pox is one of the most
prevalent and widespread diseases of sheep and goats in the study area. Hence, annual mass vaccination program
must be implemented for economic and viable control of sheep and goat pox diseases in the Amhara region in
particular and at a national level in general.
Keywords: Amhara region, Sero-prevalence, Sheep and g
