Prevalence of Bovine Fasciolosis in and Around Haramaya Town, Eastern Ethiopia

Abstract

The study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of bovine fasciolosis in and around Haramaya town from December 2007 to March 2008 based on the result of faecal examination and abattoir findings. A total of 384 bovine faecal samples were collected from different sites (kebeles). Out of the total sampled 207 (53.9) were positive for fasciolosis. According to coprological examination higher rate of infection was observed in March and lower in February. Variation in prevalence rate among the localities was statistically not significant (p > 0.05) as well as the result revealed no statistically significant difference between sexes and breeds (p>0.05). Of the total 440 bovines livers examined, at Haramaya municipal slaughter house 200 (45.45%) were found positive for fasciolosis. Of the total of infected liver 84 (42%), 78 (39%) and 38 (19%) were lightly, moderately and severely affected, respectively. 66%of the livers harbored F. hepatica, 26% F. gigantica and 8%infeced by both species of Fasciola. The mean fluke burden per infected liver was 28. Fasciolosis is an economically important health threat to live stock in the study area particularly during long dry season when nutritional conditions are compromised. Results obtained in this area were discussed in comparisons with the findings of other works. Appropriate control strategies were recommended by considering the limiting local factors of the study area.

Keywords: Fasciolosis, Cattle, Prevalence, Abattoir