Prevalence of Bovine Trypanosomiasis and its risk factors in and around Zenzelima, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia

Abstract

A cross sectional study was conducted from January 2018 to June 2018 with the aim of determining the prevalence of bovine trypanosomiasis and identifying the circulating species of trypanosomes and possible risk factors in and around Zenzelima, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia. Blood samples collected from a total of 74 cattle with different breed, age and sexes were subjected for trypanosomiasis screening using thick and thin smear methods. The overall prevalence of trypanosomiasis was found to be 4.1%. Trypanosoma vivax, was the only species found in the study area. Cattle with poor body condition were highly infected (4.1%) than medium body conditioned animals (0.0%) with (P=0.031) indicating a statistically significant association. High prevalence was observed in Gediro village (2.7%) followed by Sefatira. However; there are no positive cases detected in Sesaberet village. High prevalence of infection was observed in cross breeds (2.7%) than local breeds (1.4%), however; it was statistically insignificant. Prevalence was slightly higher in females (2.7%) than males (1.4%). Likewise, prevalence rate was higher in adult (2.7%) than in young (1.4%) cattle. Although the current prevalence of trypanosomiasis in the study area is low, treatment of sick animals and vector control strategies should be implemented, particularly in Gediro area.