Sero-epidemiological investigation and risk factors associated with camelpox in pastoral areas of Somali region, eastern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

Camelpox is a highly significant viral disease that has a major economic impact on camels in Ethiopia. However, the epidemiology of the disease in the country, particularly in Somali region, is currently not well understood. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of camelpox and identify associated risk factors in order to implement effective disease control measures in the study area. A cross-sectional design was employed from January 2023 to July 2023, involving a sample of 374 camels from 75 households in two districts and six peasant associations (PAs). Serum samples were tested using a competitive enzyme immunoassay (c-ELISA) to detect camelpox-specific antibodies. The overall seroprevalence of camelpox infection in the study area was found to be 16.0%. We administered structured questionnaires to camel owners to gather additional information on potential risk factors. Variables such as age, sex, and seasonal patterns were found to have a significant association with camelpox seropositivity. Female camels exhibited 3.2 times higher odds of infection compared to male camels, while young dromedaries aged between 6 months and 4 years were found to have a 2.3 times higher risk of infection than adults, indicating susceptibility to the age factor. Furthermore, the risk of infection was found to be 26 times higher during the rainy season than to the dry period. Thus, by identifying contributing factors, effective preventative measures, such as an appropriate vaccination strategy, can be developed to reduce the spread of camelpox and the associated economic losses. This study provides valuable insights for disease control and management practices.