Detection of Bovine Tuberculosis and Its Associated Direct Financial Losses in Cattle Slaughtered at Tamale Abattoir, Ghana

Abstract This study investigates the prevalence of BTB (bovine tuberculosis) and the direct financial losses it poses in cattle slaughtered at the Tamale abattoir in the Northern Region of Ghana. A cross-sectional study was conducted, examining 2,386 cattle slaughtered over four months. The overall BTB prevalence rate was 5.7%, with variations across different locations where the animals were brought in for slaughter. Walewale recorded the highest prevalence rate (10%) and Buipe had the least (4%). Female cattle exhibited a slightly higher prevalence (5.28%) than males (4.29%), and the age group of 4-5 years showed the highest infection rates. However, the age (p=0.754), breed (p=0.817), and location (p=0.878) of cattle with BTB lesions did not influence the incidence of the disease. The total direct financial losses due to condemned organs were estimated at GH₡ 9,296 (USD 845.09). The lungs were mostly condemned, resulting in GH₡ 5652.00 (USD 845.09) direct financial loss and the least record-ed in the spleen with GH₡ 624 financial loss. These findings draw attention to the need for enhanced surveillance and control measures to mitigate the impact of BTB on both animal health and potential economic loss.