An Investigation of Haemo and Gastrointestinal Parasites of Pigs in Some Parts of Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau State

Abstract

A study was conducted to determine the prevalence of haemo and gastro-intestinal parasites of pigs in some parts of Langtang north local government area of Plateau State. 171 blood and 171 faecal samples were collected from 171 pigs and were analyzed in the National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom, using floatation technique and thin blood smear for faecal and blood samples respectively. Results of the analysis showed that 36.84% pigs were tested positive for haemoparasites and 35.09% pigs were tested positive for gastro-intestinal parasites. The study recorded high prevalence with Babesia trautmanni 32(18.17%) and lowest prevalence with Eperythrozoon suis for haemoparasites parasites prevalence. For gastro-intestinal parasites prevalence, Oesophagostomum dentatum & Coccidia spp recorded equal high prevalence with 34(14.04) in each case while Ascaris suum, Fasciolopsis buski and Globourcephalus diducta recorded lowest with 1(0.58) in each case. In both haemo and gastro-intestinal parasites prevalence, there was no significant different (p>0.05) among the parasites encountered. No significant variations (p>0.05) were observed in relation to sex and age prevalence. From this result, different sex and age groups are equally susceptible to haemo and gastro-intestinal parasites infection in the two study districts. The study recommends tick vector eradication and regular deworming in the study area.