Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitism of cattle in Gedebano Gutazer Wolene district, Ethiopia

Abstract

This study was carried out to determine the prevalence and monthly distribution of helminth parasites of cattle in Gedebano Gutazer Wolene district, Southern Ethiopia, from November 2008 to May 2009. A total of 406 faecal samples were collected and subjected to qualitative and quantitative coprologic parasitological examination. From the cattle examined an overall prevalence of 39.6% (n=161) was recorded. The study revealed an overall prevalence of 37.9% Strongyle, 22.4% Toxocara species, 16.1% Fasciola species, 13.7% Trichuris species and 9.9% Paramphistomum species, Strongyle and Toxocara species were the most prevalent parasites encountered in the study area. Statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) in the prevalence of helminthosis between season and different age groups of cattle was noted. The prevalence of helminth parasites during wet season was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than the dry season. Out of 61 Strongyle egg type positive cattle, 14 (22.95%) were massively, 29 (47.55%) moderately and 18 (29.50%) were lightly affected. Intensity of Strongyle infection in terms of egg per gram (EPG) showed no variations when different age group and sex are compared. The current study indicated that season and age of animals are important factors associated with helminth parasites of cattle of the study area. The study identified high prevalence of parasitism demanded due attention to enhance the productivity of cattle. Therefore, strategic control approach by using effective broad spectrum anthelmintics at the beginning of rainy season is recommended and awareness creation to the farmers should be instituted in the study area. Key words: Ethiopia, cattle, gastrointestinal parasitism, prevalence.