Surveillance of tsetse fly and animal trypanosomiasis influence in parts of gombe state, Nigeria

Abstract

This research examined the factors concerning the sustainable trypanosomiasis control in parts of Gombe State, North-East Nigeria. Group planning was held with herdsmen and livestock vendors (n=64). Feedback form was administered to participants (n=27) and key-informants (n=7) were interviewed. Most respondents (90%) were Fulani by tribe who could read and write Hausa and Arabic text (ajami). Over 85% were permanent residents practicing transhuman animal husbandry. Animal trypanosomiasis (sammoré), liverfluke (chiwon hanta), worm infestations (helminthosis), and foot and mouth disease (chiwon kafa baki) in Hausa and “boru” in Fulfulde were ranked in the decreasing order of important livestock diseases mentioned. Many livestock owners and some households had lost various numbers of cattle and herds because of animal trypanosomosis. Tsetse flies (kudan tsando) were said to be very common, but many could not differentiate it from other haematophagous biting flies. During dry time, when fodder and water shortage takes place, there is seasonal moving to southern parts of Nigeria. A private-public partnership in tsetse and animal trypanosomosis control using commercially available trypanocides and insecticide is feasible and should be effectively applied. Any recommended influence/approach should recognize the level of awareness, or education of the disease and vectors, and also the willingness of grassroots stakeholders to participate or come in and make suitable control methods.