Prevalence and risk factors associated with liver fluke Fasciola hepatica in cattle and sheep in three municipalities in the Colombian Northeastern Mountains.

Abstract

Fasciola hepatica is a parasitic trematode of worldwide distribution, which affects cattle and a large number of mammals, including man. An investigation was carried out to the Colombian Northeastern Mountain between October 2017 and February 2018 with the aim to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with Fasciola hepatica. Thirty-four farms whose owners agreed to participate in the study were included. Overall, 103 bovines and 97 sheep were examined. A fecal and blood sample was collected from each animal, and all the samples were identified and stored in a refrigerated box to be transported to the Parasitology laboratory for analysis. Fecal samples were processed with a coprological technique, and blood by ELISA test. A written epidemiological survey was applied on all farms. The results indicate 20.5% of coprological prevalence and 41.5% of seroprevalence (SP). Evidence of the parasite was demonstrated in the three municipalities; however, statistical differences were found (P<.05), with higher seropositivity in Duitama municipality (SP=83.3%). Regarding risk factor, pure breeds of cattle showed 2.5 (SP=56.1, OR=2.5) times higher of infection than crossed breed. Cattle and sheep from 12 to 24months of age, showed 2.5 (SP=66.7%, OR=2.5) and 5.9 times (SP=44.2%, OR=5.9), respectively, increased infection risk. The presence of snails on the farms had higher odds for testing F. hepatica-positive, therefore, showed to be an important risk factor. The presence of antibodies against F. hepatica in cattle and sheep from the region under study suggests it is endemic and should be controlled by control and prevention programs in the farms.