McMaster Technique Research Articles

Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Parasites of Cattle in Three Districts in Central Ethiopia.

Parasitic diseases are a major impediment to livestock production worldwide. However, knowledge about the epidemiology of gastrointestinal parasites in many low-income countries is still limited. An epidemiological survey on these parasites in traditionally reared cattle was performed in central Ethiopia (West Shewa Zone), from September 2019 to November 2021. Overall, 691 samples were analyzed qualitatively (flotation technique) and quantitatively (McMaster technique) to detect helminth eggs and Eimeria oocysts. Furthermore, coprocultures were conducted on pooled samples to identify the genera of gastrointestinal strongyles (GIS). The difference in prevalence according to agroecology, season, age, sex and body condition score (BCS) was investigated using univariable tests and through a multivariable logistic regression analysis, whereas abundance values were interpreted using a descriptive approach. The highest prevalence values were observed for GIS (50.2%) and Eimeria spp. (36.0%), whereas Moniezia spp. (16.3%), Strongyloides spp. (5.1%) and Schistosoma spp. (4.2%) showed lower values. Trichuris spp. and Toxocara vitulorum were sporadically found. A coproculture revealed that Haemonchus spp. (34.6%), Trichostrongylus spp. (25.9%) and Bunostomum spp. (19.1%) were the most frequent genera of GIS. A poor BCS was strongly associated with the occurrence of GIS, while seasonal variations were detected for Eimeria spp., GIS, Moniezia spp. and Schistosoma spp., with a higher prevalence and burden during the rainy season, and agroecology also strongly influenced different parasitic taxa. This present study increases the knowledge about the epidemiological features of gastrointestinal parasites in the context of a low-income country, suggesting a more tailored approach for their control. The use of a BCS as an indicator for the selective treatment of highly infested animals is supported by our findings, introducing a possible way to prevent anthelmintic resistance in areas where basic diagnostic services are rarely used by farmers.

Epidemiological studies of gastrointestinal parasites infecting dogs in Kwara Central, North Central, Nigeria

Dogs are the most cosmopolitan pets of humans and as such a means of transmitting zoonotic parasites to their owners. This study was designed to investigate the diversity, prevalence, pattern of infection, intensity of infections, and the risk factors associated with gastrointestinal parasites of dogs in Kwara Central, North Central, Nigeria. Three hundred and five clinically healthy dogs were sampled. Faecal samples were subjected to the direct smear, simple faecal centrifugation flotation, formol-ether concentration, and the Modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining techniques. Oocysts/eggs per gram of faeces were counted using the modified McMaster technique. Data were analysed using univariate logistic regression, multivariate logistic regression, and the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). A p -value of < 0.05 was considered significant for all analyses. One hundred and sixty-six dogs were positive for at least one species of gastrointestinal parasite, representing 54.43% (95% CI: 44.81 – 59.96) of the sampled population. The study identified Cystoisospora species (15.41%), Cryptosporidium species (25.25%), Ancylostoma species (25.25%), Toxocara canis (19.02%), Strongyloides stercoralis (7.54%), Uncinaria stenocephala (6.89%), and Dipylidium caninum (2.30%) as the gastrointestinal parasites infecting dogs in the study area. Coinfection with more than one species of gastrointestinal parasites was a common finding in dogs. The intensity of Cystoisospora spp. among infected dogs ranged between 40 and 980 oocysts per gram of faeces, while that of helminth parasites was 40 – 1560 eggs per gram of faeces. Age, sex, breeds, body condition score, presence of ticks on dogs, the purpose of keeping dog(s), types of housing, types of feed consumed, vaccination status, and treatment with antiparasitics were predators associated with the prevalence and intensity of gastrointestinal parasites infections. Due to the zoonotic nature of most of the encountered gastrointestinal parasites, there is need for regular antiparasitic treatment, proper dog management, and adequate personal hygiene to prevent zoonosis.

Comparison of McMaster and Mini-FLOTAC techniques for the diagnosis of internal parasites in pigs.

This purpose of this study was to compare the efficiency of the McMaster and Mini-FLOTAC quantitative techniques in the investigation of helminths in feces of pigs. An analysis was made of 74 fecal samples from pigs raised on family farms located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. These were analyzed by the Mini-FLOTAC and McMaster techniques in a solution of 1,200g/mL NaCl. This investigation revealed a superiority in the frequency of all helminths detected by Mini-FLOTAC, including Ascaris suum, Trichuris suis, strongyles and Strongyloides ransomi. The Kappa index revealed substantial agreement in all comparisons made in relation to the frequency of positive samples. However, significant statistical differences in the comparison of EPGs between McMaster and Mini-FLOTAC were observed for all nematodes (p ≤0.05). Higher values of Pearson's linear correlation coefficient (r), between the techniques in relation to EPG were observed for A. suum and T. suis, differently from what was observed for strongyles and S. ransomi. Mini-FLOTAC proved to be a more satisfactory and reliable technique both for the diagnosis of parasites and for the determination of EPG in pig feces due to the larger size of its counting chambers, thus increasing the helminth egg recovery rates.

Prevalence of endoparasitic infection in captive macaques in Kerala zoos

The study was conducted in three macaque species namely Lion-tailed macaque (Macaca silenus), Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) and Bonnet macaque (Macaca radiata) in the zoos of Kerala. Faecal samples were collected from individual macaques kept in open enclosures and retiring cages. The samples were examined by sedimentation method for assessing the endoparasitic infection and its prevalence percentage in captive macaques. The degree of infection was assessed by faecal egg counts of samples by McMaster technique. The study found zero prevalence of strongyles in Lion-tailed macaques; 20 per cent in Rhesus macaque and 100 per cent in Bonnet macaques. The eggs per gram of strongyles in Rhesus macaques were 100 ± 39.22 and in Bonnet macaques were 312 ± 47.94. The prevalence of coccidia was 16.6 per cent in Lion-tailed macaques; 40 per cent in Rhesus macaque and 100 per cent in Bonnet macaques. The oocysts per gram of coccidia in Lion-tailed macaques were 166 ± 98.88; in Rhesus macaques were 200 ± 89.44 and in Bonnet macaques were 1850 ± 53.54. The present study revealed the higher prevalence and degree of infection of coccidia and strongyles in Bonnet macaques when compared to the other two macaque species.

In vivo anthelmintic activity of Eleusine indica extracts against gastrointestinal nematodes of goats.

The study aimed to determine the potential anthelmintic activity of the ethyl acetate extract of Eleusine indica that will result in an effective reduction in fecal egg per gram (EPG) counts in naturally infected goats compared to the commercial anthelmintic levamisole. The experimental animals were 21 goats naturally infected with gastrointestinal nematodes. The goats were divided into groups that were given a single dose of E. indica extract. Five concentrations of E. indica were tested for anthelmintic activity: 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 mg extract/kg body weight. Fecal sample collection was done before treatment, during the first treatment, and every week thereafter for 28 days post-treatment (dpt). A modified McMaster technique was used to determine the EPG of feces, and the mean efficacies of the extracts were compared with those of the commercial anthelmintic levamisole. As early as 7 dpt, there was an observed reduction in the epg counts after the administration of E. indica extracts across all concentrations. Administering 500 mg of extract/kg body weight resulted in a maximum efficacy of 56.21%. However, the efficacy achieved was lower than that of levamisole (96.83%). The results show that the E. indica extract can reduce the fecal EPG counts of naturally infected goats, thus creating a potential natural anthelmintic that can be developed further.

Gastrointestinal parasite assemblages from the wild rodent capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) inhabiting a natural protected area from Argentina

Abstract Knowledge about parasitic diseases of wildlife will help us to understand the dynamics of parasites and their effects on host populations. The capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) is the largest living rodent in the world, and its distribution is associated with the presence of tropical and subtropical wetlands in South America. The Los Padres Lake Integral Reserve (LPLIR) is an important conservation zone in the pampean region of Argentina. One of the emblematic species found within the reserve is the capybara. The objective of this study was to determine the gastrointestinal parasites present in wild capybaras of the LPLIR and to compare different coprological methodologies. Free-ranging capybara fresh feces from 57 individuals were randomly collected from the area of LPLIR in the summer of 2022. Three different techniques were applied: spontaneous sedimentation technique (SS), INTA modified McMaster technique (MM), and Mini-FLOTAC (MF) technique. Fifty-six samples from all samples analysed (56/57, 98%) were found to be positive for gastrointestinal parasites. Two species of Strongylida, Protozoophaga obesa, Echinocoleus hydrochaeris, one unidentified nematode, one unidentified spirurid, and at least two morphotypes of Eimeria spp. oocysts were recorded. There were found significant differences in the proportion of positive samples and in richness by technique, but no significant differences were found in parasite counting. In conclusion, the choice of methodology depends on the specific objectives of the study. This is the first parasitological study of capybaras from the LPLIR and represents an exploration of parasite communities present in these wild rodents at their southernmost distribution.

PREVALENCE OF CAPILLARIA NEMATODES OF PIGEONS (COLUMBA LIVIA DOMESTICA) IN DISTRICT NAROWAL, PUNJAB, PAKISTAN

Pigeons are omnipresent birds which belong to the order, Columbiformes and cover a large part of every town and city, worldwide. Among the parasites of pigeons, Capillaria is found to be more prevalent in them after Eimeria. These worms penetrate deeply in the intestinal mucosa leading to haemorrhages and epithelial necrosis thereby presenting clinical disease and death occurs if left untreated. The major purpose of this study was to determine the burden of Capillaria spp. in domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica) of district Narowal. Total 210 fecal samples from pigeon flocks were processed qualitatively through direct microscopy and floatation method while quantitatively through McMaster technique. The parasitic eggs were diagnosed using standard keys. In this study, 154 (73.33%) out of the 210 samples were found infected with Capillaria spp. The quantitative examination presented the lowest eggs per gram (EPG) of 300 in the Narowal tehsil and highest EPG of 800 in Shakargarh tehsil among the study areas. This study will be helpful in raising awareness to pigeon owners to improve pigeons health status through better control of capillariasis.

Copromicroscopic study of gastrointestinal parasites in captive mammals at Central Zoo, Lalitpur, Nepal.

Zoological gardens (Zoo) provide abode to various threatened animals or trafficked animals seized by the authorities, and injured and orphaned animals. Captive animals are more susceptible to infection as they are under significant stress due to diet and space which further dwindle their resistance to parasitic infections. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and burden of gastrointestinal parasites in captive mammals housed at Central Zoo. Fresh faecal samples from three orders of mammals including carnivora (n = 24), rodentia (n = 28) and artiodactyla (n = 35) were examined by direct smear, faecal floatation and sedimentation techniques, and the McMaster technique was applied to quantify parasite eggs per gram (EPG)/oocysts per gram (OPG) of a faecal sample. One or more parasite taxa were detected in 19.54% of the examined samples and five types of GIPs including one protozoon (Eimeria spp.) and four helminths (Strongyloides spp., Haemonchus spp. and Trichostrongylus spp. and hookworm) were recorded. The protozoan prevalence (6.89 %) was lower than helminths (12.64%). The Eimeria spp. was the most prevalent parasite (6.89%) with the highest OPG (427.77 ± 25.45SD) in spotted deer (Axis axis), and the highest prevalence was noticed among artiodactyla (34.28%) followed by carnivora (12.5%) and rodentia (7.14%). Artiodactyla had both single infection (25.71%) and double (8.57%) infection. The percentage of single infection (16.09%) was found to be higher than double infection (3.44%) among the captive mammals. The wild boar (Sus scrofa) had the highest EPG of 383.33 ± 76.37SD (Strongyloides spp.), while the spotted deer had the lowest EPG of 216.66 ± 76.37SD (hookworm). Despite careful management practices, the parasitic infection may be attributed to the narrow enclosure, group housing and environmental contamination. The present finding provides baseline information on the parasitic infection in captive mammals, and can be used by zoo managers for the better life of captive animals.

First report of gastrointestinal nematodes and coccidia parasites from free-range chickens in Mafeteng district, Lesotho.

Free-range chickens are an integral part of poultry production in many developing countries. In the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho, the majority of the population own free-range chickens, which serve a variety of purposes including being a source of meat, eggs and use for cultural rituals amongst others. However, there is lack of scientific studies on occurrence of parasitic infections on free-range chickens in Lesotho. The aim of this study was to document common gastrointestinal parasites infecting free-range chickens in four villages of Mafeteng District in Lesotho. A total number of 462 pooled faecal samples were collected from various households in HaKubutu (n=114), HaMatjeka (n=120), HaMpalipali (n=120) and Thabang Villages (n=108) which were subjected to microscopic examination using McMaster technique. The prevalence of gastrointestinal parasite infection was as follows: Eimeria tenella (12.8%), Ascaridia galli (10.4%) and Heterakis gallinarum (5%). The prevalence for H. gallinarum and Ascaridia galli were comparatively higher during the hot-wet season (7.1% and 2.8% respectively) than the cold-dry season (3.2% and 1.9% respectively) and varied significantly (P<0.05). For E. tenella, the oocysts per gram were slightly higher in the cold-dry season than the hot-wet season. Polymerase chain reaction only amplified DNA from six (29%) adult A. galli worms of which two amplicons were successfully sequenced. The obtained cytochrome C oxidase subunit 1 partial gene sequences displayed 98-100% identity with South African A. galli isolates. This is the first scientific study on prevalence and molecular characterization of nematodes and coccidia species infecting free-range village chickens in Lesotho. The findings can be used to review management of gastrointestinal nematodes and protozoal parasites of free-range chickens in Lesotho.

51 Determining the Best Indicators for Targeted Selective Treatment Against Gastrointestinal Nematodes in Sheep and Goats in Mississippi

Abstract Successful Targeted Selective Treatment (TST) against gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) in small ruminant farms require the accurate measurement of phenotypic indicators of the animals. Specific indicators to predict the GIN burden include the age of the animal (A, years), bodyweight (BW, lbs), FAMACHAÓ (score from 1 to 4), body condition score (BCS, score from 1 to 5), and fecal egg count (FEC, eggs per gram of feces or EPG). Objective: Determine the indicator(s) that will more accurately contribute to TST for sheep and goats in the state of Mississippi (MS). Five (05) sheep and five (05) goat herds were used for data collection during fall 2021, the indicators of ewes (n=182) and does (n=197) were individually measured and FEC was determined using a modified McMaster technique. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistix for Windows v. 8.0., and two by two contingency tables were used to evaluate the association between FAMACHA and EPG, and BCS and EPG. The average indicators for sheep and goats sampled were, respectively, for A 2.91 and 2.98 years (P&amp;gt;0.05); BW 137.99 and 89.69 lbs. (P=0.0000); FAMACHA 2.53 and 2.99 (P=0.0000); BCS 3.25 and 2.98 (P=0.0000); FEC 510.05 and 487.56 EPG (P=0.0001). The correlations of FEC and FAMACHA for both species were positive 0.1753 (P=0.0006). Negative correlations were found for FEC and BCS of -0.1517 (P=0.0031) and for FAMACHA and BCS of -0.2945 (P=0.0000). The 2x2 contingency tables showed that goats with FAMACHA 4-5 had 37% chances to have &amp;gt;500 EPG compared to goats with FAMACHA 1-3 (28.2%) (P &amp;gt;0.05). Meanwhile, the BCS 1-2 resulted in 1.01-2.73 times more goats with &amp;gt;500 EPG (45.8% vs. 27.7%; P&amp;lt; 0.05). That effect was more evident for sheep, where 62.6% of animals with BCS 1-2 had &amp;gt;500 EPG vs. 15.8% with BCS 3-5, but the sample size was insufficient to assign statistical significance.

PSVIII-9 Effect of Garlic Extracts on Galectin Protein Secretion in St. Croix Sheep Blood

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of garlic extract on the modulation of Galectin protein secretion in sheep blood. Dietary supplements can influence innate immunity. Garlic (Allium sativum) and its derivatives are eco-friendly non-antibiotic, growth-promoting dietary supplements known to modulate inflammation. Galectins (Gals) are a family of animal lectins that bind β-galactosides. Secreted Gal modulates pathological processes and inflammation. It is important to define potential targets of Garlic for its applications in sheep health. Clinically, healthy adult, age-matched non-pregnant St Croix sheep (n=12) from the NC A&amp;T University farm were divided into treatment group (n=6) and control group (n=6). Treatment group 1 was drenched with 5 ml garlic juice (Garlic Barrier (Glendale, CA) concentrate at a rate of 10 ml diluted in sterile distilled water 1:1. The control group was drenched with 10ml sterile distilled water for four weeks. The body weight, body condition, and FAMACHA scores were measured weekly. Faecal egg count was evaluated using the modified McMaster technique. Total plasma protein was analyzed using the BCA assay. Secretion of Gals 1, 3, 9 was evaluated using ELISA kits (My BIOSOURCE). Data were analyzed using T-test where p≤0.05 (SAS9.4 SAS Institute Cary NC). Garlic had no significant effect on FAMACHA ©, body condition score, packed cell volume, differential white blood cell count. Fecal egg count decreased significantly in treated animals in weeks 1(p&amp;lt; 0.034) and 3 (p&amp;lt; 0.003). Total protein, GAL-1 and GAL-3 concentration increased (p&amp;lt; 0.004) in the treatment group. The concentration of Gal-9 decreased when compared to the control group. Garlic had no adverse effect and differentially modulated Gal secretion. Further studies are required to determine the health and production benefits of the observed Gal modulation using garlic in St Croix sheep.

Hura crepitans Seeds for Control of Eimeria spp. in Lambs as an Alternative to Conventional Therapies.

Simple SummaryThe anticoccidial effect of Hura crepitans seed was evaluated for 3 weeks. For this, 21 lambs were used, which were housed individually in raised wire-mesh pens with individual water troughs and feeders. The lambs were randomly divided into three groups (n = 7) that received different doses of Hura crepitans seeds. The treatment was administered at the beginning of the experiment once orally. Faecal samples were taken for quantitative analysis of oocysts and blood for haematological and biochemical analyses. Lambs that received the seeds showed significant excretion of coccidia oocysts between days 5 and 7 post-treatment, without affecting feed intake and growth. Most blood parameters analysed showed values within the reference interval, while urea and BUN levels increased slightly but without statistical difference. We can conclude that Hura crepitans seeds, at doses of 4 and 6 g/kg, favour the expulsion of coccidia oocysts, without affecting either the health or the productive behaviour of lambs.To evaluate the anticoccidial effect of the Hura crepitans seed, 21 cross-breed lambs, 23 ± 3 kg live weight (PV) and 70 ± 6 days old, were used. Animals were housed individually in raised wire-mesh pens, with individual water troughs and feeders. Lambs were randomly divided into three groups (n = 7) that received different doses of Hura crepitans seeds: 4 g/kg B.W. (group 1), 6 g/kg B.W. (group 2) and 0 g/kg B.W. (control group or group 0). The treatment was administered at the beginning of the experiment once orally and the study lasted 21 days. Stool samples were taken for quantitative analysis of oocysts using the McMaster technique and blood for haematological and biochemical analysis. Lambs that received the seeds showed a higher excretion of coccidia oocysts between days 5 and 7 after treatment (p < 0.05) due to the antiparasitic effect of these seeds, without affecting their productive performance (daily feed intake (DFI)- total weight gain (TWG), daily weight gain (DWG)). In addition, the daily feed consumption (DFC) and dry matter intake (DMI) were similar between the groups. The analysed enzymes (ALT, AST, GGT and FA) and creatinine showed reference values. Only the urea and BUN levels were slightly increased, but without statistical difference between the groups. Therefore, the Hura crepitans seed, at doses of 4 and 6 g/kg, favours the expulsion of coccidial oocysts, without affecting either the health or the productive behaviour of lambs.

Prevalence and risk factors associated with equine strongylosis in Baybay City, Leyte, Philippines

Strongylosis is a pressing equine health problem. This study determined the prevalence and risk factors associated with strongylosis in horses in Baybay City, Leyte, based on its egg morphology. A total of 263 horse fecal samples were collected and examined. Nematode eggs were identified using Modified McMaster technique. Other relevant epidemiological data associated with strongyle infections were also collected using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were carried out to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with strongylosis in horses. Results showed an overall prevalence of 97.72% (257/263; 95% CI=95.10-99.16); of which, 92.78% (244/263; 95% CI=91.18-94.37) were cyathostomins and 67.30% (177/263; 95% CI=64.41-70.19) were Strongylus sp. Logistic regression analyses revealed a significant association between Strongylus sp. infection and moderate body condition score (p-value=0.0006), housing in a shed (p-value=0.0255), and tethering of the horse (p-value=0.0116). The high prevalence rate of equine strongyle infection in Baybay City, Leyte, could indicate the neglect and underestimation of the disease for a considerable period of time. Thus, active clinico-epidemiological investigations are warranted in order to design and establish cost-effective and sustainable control and preventive approaches.

The performance of field sampling for parasite detection in a wild passerine.

Parasites can impact the behavior of animals and alter the interplay with ecological factors in their environment. Studying the effects that parasites have on animals thus requires accurate estimates of infections in individuals. However, quantifying parasites can be challenging due to several factors. Laboratory techniques, physiological fluctuations, methodological constraints, and environmental influences can introduce measurement errors, in particular when screening individuals in the wild. These issues are pervasive in ecological studies where it is common to sample study subjects only once. Such factors should be carefully considered when choosing a sampling strategy, yet presently there is little guidance covering the major sources of error. In this study, we estimate the reliability and sensitivity of different sampling practices at detecting two internal parasites—Serratospiculoides amaculata and Isospora sp.—in a model organism, the great tit Parus major. We combine field and captive sampling to assess whether individual parasite infection status and load can be estimated from single field samples, using different laboratory techniques—McMaster and mini‐FLOTAC. We test whether they vary in their performance, and quantify how sample processing affects parasite detection rates. We found that single field samples had elevated rates of false negatives. By contrast, samples collected from captivity over 24 h were highly reliable (few false negatives) and accurate (repeatable in the intensity of infection). In terms of methods, we found that the McMaster technique provided more repeatable estimates than the mini‐FLOTAC for S. amaculata eggs, and both techniques were largely equally suitable for Isospora oocysts. Our study shows that field samples are likely to be unreliable in accurately detecting the presence of parasites and, in particular, for estimating parasite loads in songbirds. We highlight important considerations for those designing host–parasite studies in captive or wild systems giving guidance that can help select suitable methods, minimize biases, and acknowledge possible limitations.

Reliability of Some Clinical Parameters for Field Diagnosis of African Animal Trypanosomosis in Cattle

Presumptive and inaccurate diagnosis of cattle trypanosomosis among field veterinarians has led to misuse of trypanocides, development of drug resistance, toxicities and huge economic losses. This study assessed the reliability, specificity and sensitivity of some identified trypanosomosis associated signalments (anaemia using FAMACHA® guide, body condition score (BCS), superficial lymph nodes enlargement and jugular pulsation) as field diagnostic parameters. Blood and faecal samples were collected from 273 subjectively selected cattle for the determination of packed cell volume (PCV) and screening for trypanosome, and for helminth egg using McMaster technique, respectively. Data obtained from assessment of packed cell volume based on BCS, FAMANCHA score, superficial lymph nodes enlargement and jugular pulsation were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi square, while comparison of data using independent student ttest and one-way ANOVA was similarly conducted. Of the screened cattle, 16.5% (45/273) were positive for trypanosome. Single infection due to Trypanosoma spp. was found in 13.5% (37/273) cattle, while 2.9% (8/273) had trypanosome concurrently with Babesia spp. or helminth infections. The prevalence of Trypanosoma infection was higher in animals with mild or moderately pale mucous membrane, slight emaciation, palpable superficial lymph nodes and pulsating jugular vein. The mean PCV of Trypanosoma infected cattle (27.65±0.056) was lower than in non-infected cattle (31.30±0.36) (p&lt;0.05). Based on the jugular pulsation status, enlargement of the superficial lymph nodes, trypanosomosis state and Famancha category, there was no significant (p&lt;0.05) variation in the PCV of the examined cattle. A negative and low correlation (r = -0.054) existed between BCS and FAMACHA® anaemia score. Each of the clinical diagnostic parameters showed poor sensitivity when employed separately, but the sensitivity improved when applied together and showed 80% specificity to Trypanosoma infection. The results of the present study showed that Trypanosoma infected cattle were associated with anaemia, emaciation, weight loss, jugular pulsation and lymphadenophathy.&#x0D; Key Words: Trypanosomosis, Diagnosis, Cattle, Anaemia, Treatment

Eimeria infections among commercial laying chickens in Nigeria: the prevalence and clinico-histopathological changes.

Coccidiosis is known to affect a wide range of animals including chickens. This study was designed to determine the nation-wide prevalence and clinico-histopathological changes associated with Eimeria infections in commercial laying birds in Nigeria. One Thousand eight hundred and forty-three (1843) commercial laying chickens from 28 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Nigeria, between 2007 and 2016 were examined for the presence of Eimeria parasites and for clinicopathological lesions. Simple flotation and the McMaster techniques were used to confirm the presence of Eimeria oocysts and estimate the oocyst load. Positive samples were sporulated for the purpose of species differentiation. Gross and histopathology were carried out accordingly. Two hundred and seven (207) faecal samples/carcasses were positive for Eimeria infections (11.23%; 95% CI = 9.87-12.75). Eimeria tenella and E. necatrix were the most prevalent species. The highest mean oocyst per gram (OPG) was recorded in E. acervulina (5260.87 (± 1838.35)). The prevalence of Eimeria infections in commercial laying birds within the states ranged between 4.4% (Kaduna State), and 33% (Ebonyi and Lagos States), and 21.1% in FCT. There was a higher prevalence of Eimeria infections in commercial laying birds that are less than 1year compared to those above a year. Eimeria infections was 2.19 times more likely to occur during the wet season compared to the dry season (95% CI = 1.59-3.06; χ2 = 23.29; P = < 0.01). One hundred and eighty-five (185) carcasses showed moderate petechiae to ecchymotic intestinal/caecal mucosa, while 22 carcasses showed severe petechiae to ecchymotic intestinal/caecal mucosa with bloody intestinal lumen. This study appears to be the first nation-wide study on the prevalence and clinico-histopathological changes associated with Eimeria infections in commercial laying chickens in Nigeria.

Prevalence and burden of gastrointestinal parasites in stray cattle of the Kathmandu Valley.

Gastrointestinal parasites (GIPs) are common among cattle resulting severe infection. Prevalence of GIPs in stray street cattle may pose risk of dissemination of parasites of zoonotic importance. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of GIPs in stray cattle of the Kathmandu valley. One hundred (n = 100) freshly voided dung samples were collected from eight sites. The samples were processed using the concentration method for microscopic examination, and modified McMaster technique for quantification of mean eggs/oocysts per gram of feces (EPG/OPG). Results revealed that 72% of the cattle were found positive for one or more species of GIPs and nine genera of GIPs were recorded (Eimeria, Ostertagia, Haemonchus, Trichostrongylus, Capillaria, Trichuris, Toxocara, Fasciolaand Paramphistomum). The prevalence of parasitic infection was higher in males (73.68%) than in females (69.76%). The prevalence was found to be highest in adults (63.89%) followed by heifers or steers (27.78%) and calves (8.33%). Approximately, 76% of the cross breed and 65% of the local breed of cattle were positive for parasitic infection. The parasites differed both in prevalence and intensity. Eimeria sp. was the most prevalent (27%) species and had the highest intensity (858.02 OPG ± 63.46 SD). To our knowledge, this is the first research of its kind in relation to stray cattle in Nepal. Our findings reveal that there is a burden of helminth infections of zoonotic and socioeconomic importance in straycattle. Therefore, we recommend regular inspection of stray cattle and relevant preventive measures be put in place.

Reduction of the nematode egg reappearance period in horses after anthelmintic therapy.

Background and Aim:Anthelmintics are used to control equine nematodes. However, helminth resistance to regularly used drugs is a well-known challenge. Among tests to assess effective control and monitor resistance, the most common is the fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT). In the absence of reliable FECRT results, the nematode egg reappearance period (ERP) is taken into account. This study aimed to examine horses from farms around the Moscow Region to assess nematode resistance through ERP after therapy.Materials and Methods:In the first stage, fecal samples from 280 horses were examined by the flotation method with a sodium nitrate solution. The eggs per gram (EPG) in feces were counted using the modified McMaster technique. One hundred and forty out of 280 horses were selected for further work. Five groups were formed: Two groups of horses infected with strongyles (n = 50) and three groups with Parascaris equorum (n = 90). Therapy against strongyles was performed with albendazole and ivermectin. Therapy for parascaridosis was performed with fenbendazole, ivermectin, and aversectin C. Samples from the horses in each group were taken on the 14th day (2 weeks), 28th day (4 weeks), 42nd day (6 weeks), 56th day (8 weeks), and 84th day (12 weeks) after treatment, and the amount of EPG in each sample was determined.Results:Overall, nematodes were found in 65% of the horses examined. P. equorum was most frequently recorded (42.1%) followed by Strongylidae gen. spp. (27.9%). The strongyles ERP after therapy with albendazole and ivermectin was estimated on 42 days (6 weeks). The growth of P. equorum eggs in the feces was observed from the 56th day (8 weeks) after therapy with fenbendazole, from the 42nd day (6 weeks) after therapy with ivermectin, and was observed from the 84th day (12 weeks) after the use of aversectin.Conclusion:Our study shows widespread reductions in nematode ERPs across the Moscow Region after ivermectin therapy in horses, suggesting that additional monitoring of these farms is needed for effective control of anthelmintic resistance.

The Prevalence of Intestinal Parasite Infections in Goats from Smallholder Farms in Northern Thailand.

SummaryThe present study determined the prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites in small ruminants kept in smallholder farms in Phitsanulok, Northern Thailand. A total of 885 goats from 31 smallholder farms were selected randomly between May 2019 to January 2020. Fecal samples were collected to estimate fecal egg counts and oocysts counts using the modified McMaster technique. Furthermore, pooled fecal samples from each of the farms were cultured in order to differentiate third-stage larvae of nematode. Examination of fecal samples revealed that 885 were positive for one or more parasites, giving an overall prevalence of 87.2 %, of which 38.6 % were infected with one and 48.6 % with multiple parasite. Strongyles and Eimeria oocysts were the most prevalent. Haemonchus contortus and Strongyloides papillosus were the predominant species based on the percentage of larvae in fecal cultures. Tapeworm eggs were encountered in 14.2 % of all samples. No significant difference in gastrointestinal parasite prevalence was associated with sex of the host. Infection was significantly (P = 0.009) highest in poor body conditioned goats (72.0 %) as compared to moderate (48.9 %) and good body conditioned (50.0 %) goats. This report on prevalence of GI parasites of small ruminants in smallholder farms in Northern Thailand reveals a high endoparasitic infections that appeared well-adapted to environmental conditions. Further studies on endoparasite control are required to establish the impact of parasitism on productive performance, including monitoring control parasite programs are needed for better health and productivity.

Status of gastrointestinal nematode infections and associated epidemiological factors in sheep from Córdoba, Colombia

Gastrointestinal nematodes cause serious economic losses in sheep production systems. To determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with these parasites, a study was conducted on 595 sheep in Córdoba, Colombia. Prevalence and parasite burden were determined using the McMaster technique. Larvae were cultured from feces to identify the nematode genera. For the analysis of associated factors and parasite burden, data means, medians, and confidence intervals were compared. A georeferenced data analysis was performed and an epidemiological map was constructed. An overall prevalence of 88.2% was found, with the highest prevalence and parasite burden for Strongylida (83.2%) and Strongyloides (41%) nematodes. The mean parasite burden was 1255 eggs per gram. The gastrointestinal nematode genera identified were Trichostrongylus, Strongyloides, Haemonchus, Oesophagostomum, Bunostomum, and Cooperia. In general, a significant association was found between parasite burden and dewormed animals, anthelmintic used, date of last deworming, and breeds. The FAMACHA® method and body condition showed a significant association with the Strongylida parasite burden. Clusters with higher intensity of gastrointestinal nematode burden and high prevalence were observed in the regions of Bajo Sinú, Sinú Medio, and San Jorge.