Prevalence Of Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infections Research Articles

Studies on prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infection in sheep in Kashmir Valley

Studies on prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infection in sheep in Kashmir Valley

Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infections in Sheep and Goats of Sandwip Island, Chattogram, Bangladesh

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasitic infection is considered a common problem in sheep and goat production in Bangladesh. The current investigation was undertaken to determine the prevalence of GI parasitic infection and its associated risk factors (e.g., age, sex, nutritional & deworming status etc.) in sheep and goats of the Sandwip Island, Chattogram, Bangladesh. A total of 330 faecal samples of which 220 sheep and 110 goats were taken using a random sampling method. All the samples were subjected to routine coproscopy (e.g., direct smear, flotation and sedimentation) to detect the eggs/oocysts of helminths and protozoan parasites. Results demonstrated that the overall prevalence of GI parasitic infections was 68.64% in sheep and 61.82% in goats. The frequency of nematodes and trematodes was higher in comparison to cestodes and protozoan infections in both sheep and goats of all the three study areas. Age-specific prevalence demonstrated that adult goats had significantly higher GI parasitic infections in comparison to the young population. Female sheep were more prone to GI parasitic infections whereas the opposite trend was noticed for goats. The sheep and goats having the ‘poor’ body condition score/nutritional status were more susceptible to parasitic infections compared to moderate and good health conditions. Rarely or non-dewormed sheep and goats also harboured more GI parasites compared ‘dewormed animals’. The current investigation was fresh of its types in the study areas, therefore, we recommended extensive studies including epidemiological and molecular approaches to identify GI parasitic diseases and their associated risk factors.

The Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Buffalo Calves in Sylhet District of Bangladesh

BACKGROUND: Buffalo is one of the most important animals for the source of milk and meat, and it is also used for draught purposes in Bangladesh. Gastrointestinal parasites in the buffalo calves lead to reduced growth and hinder the development of buffalo industry in Bangladesh. OBJECTIVES: The study was conducted to identify the gastrointestinal parasitic load in the buffalo calves at Sylhet district, Bangladesh. METHODS: Fecal samples were collected from one hundred seventy (170) buffalo calves from different areas of Sylhet district and samples were examined using sedimentation, and floatation techniques. A morphological examination of parasitic eggs was performed to identify the parasitic species. RESULTS: Among the 170 calves examined in the present study, 62 (36.47%) were found positive with different parasites. Two species of gastro-intestinal parasites were identified, among them 26.47% positive with Neoascarisvitulorum, 5.88% with Strongyloides sp .and 4.12% with Strongyle type. The prevalence of gastro-intestinal (GI) parasites in males (44.12%) was lower than in female (55.88%) calves. A relatively higher worm load was observed in summer (58.82%) than rainy (41.18%) season. The prevalence of Gastrointestinal parasitic infections was significantly higher (p ≤0.05) in calves aged 6 months of age (44.12%) than calves of 6-12 months of age (32.35%) followed by 13-18 months of age (23.53%). EPG (egg per gr of feces) ranged from 50-1950. CONCLUSIONS: The present study showed that the prevalence of GI parasites in buffalo calves in Sylhet is relatively higher regardless of age, sex, and seasons. Data generated through this study will help to adopt necessary measures to control the GI parasitic infections in buffalo calves in developing countries like Bangladesh.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infections in cattle and sheep in two regions of Romania

Amongst ruminant livestock diseases, the gastrointestinal (GIT) helminths and protozoan parasite infections result in a significant socio-economic concern worldwide. During the period between October 2017 and November 2018, a total of 788 fresh fecal specimens from cattle (n = 303) and sheep (n = 485) were screened for the presence of gastrointestinal helminths and protozoan parasites in two historical regions (Crisana and Banat) of western Romania. Laboratory processing of fecal samples with the simple salt flotation (Willis) and sedimentation techniques, followed by microscopic analysis revealed that 86.1% of cattle and 92.6% of sheep were found to be positive for at least one parasitic stage of GIT helminths and/or protozoa. Five endoparasites were identified in both cattle (C) and sheep (S), and their prevalence was as follows: Eimeria spp. 24.1% (C), 43.7% (S); Balantidium spp. 10.2% (C), 1% (S); Fasciola/ Paramphistomum spp. 55.8% (C), 75% (S); Dicrocoelium spp. 14.2% (C), 3.2% (S); and Strongylid eggs 46.9% (C), 71.3% (S). In addition, Toxocara spp. (0.3%) genera were found in cattle, while Nematodirus spp. (24.5%) and Moniezia spp. (3.5%) were observed only in sheep. The strongylid infections were significantly more prevalent (P < 0.05) in cattle older than 8 years, while the coccidial ones were positively associated (P < 0.05) with sheep younger than 2 years. The study provides useful information for veterinary practitioners in order to develop effective prevention and control strategies against gastrointestinal parasitic infections in the studied regions.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in free-range yaks (Bos grunniens) in Gansu Province, Northwest China

BackgroundLittle information about the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in yaks (Bos grunniens) in northwest China is available. Therefore, the objective of the study was to quantify faecal egg counts of gastrointestinal parasites (helminths and coccidia) in free-range yaks from Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, Northwest China.ResultsParasites were detected in 290 of 733 (39.56%) faecal samples. The results showed that Strongylidae, Trichuris spp. and Eimeria spp. were detected all year round, Strongyloides papillosus was detected in autumn and summer, and Nematodirus spp. was detected in both autumn and spring. In contrast, Fasciola spp. was only detected in spring. The prevalence rates of parasitic infections in different seasons were significantly different.ConclusionsTo our knowledge, this is the first investigation of gastrointestinal parasites in yaks (Bos grunniens) in Gansu, China. The results demonstrated a high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infections, specifically GN infections, in yaks in GTAP and these infections can cause economic losses to the local cattle industry.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infections in sheep of a coastal belt under Noakhali district, Bangladesh

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasitic infection is considered one of the major concerns in sheep production in Bangladesh. The current study was undertaken to determine the GI parasitic infections in sheep reared in bathan area and semi-intensive conditions of six (6) randomly selected areas of Subarnachar upazila under Noakhali costal belt. A total of 200 fecal samples were collected and examined to detect the ova of GI parasites using routine coproscopical tests (e.g. direct smear, sedimentation and flotation). Results demonstrated that the overall prevalence of GI infections in sheep was found 79.50%, where infections caused by trematodes were the highest in comparison to cestode and nematodes. The frequency of GI parasites were more common in all the study areas where the higher prevalence was recorded in Char Clark, Char Jabbar and Char Bata which ranged around 82-84% compared to other areas. Further, sheep reared in bathan areas (82.66%) were found to be more susceptible to GI parasitic infections compared to sheep kept on semi-intensive condition (77.60%). Furthermore, the occurrence of GI parasites was significantly higher in female sheep compared to male. The present study documented the occurrence of GI parasites which might reduce the production performance of the animals of that coastal belt. We recommend further extensive study for molecular detection of such parasitic infections including growing awareness among sheep owners to prevent and control of those infections.

Prevalence assessment of gastrointestinal parasitic infections among goats in Giza Governorate, Egypt

BackgroundGastrointestinal parasitic diseases remain an obstacle in goat industry in Egypt and worldwide. This study was conducted for assessing the prevalence of the gastrointestinal parasitic infections among goats in Giza Governorate, Egypt. To fulfill this study, examination of 225 fecal samples of live animals kept by small holders was done, as well as postmortem investigation of 135 random slaughtered goats’ gastrointestinal tracts was achieved during the period from March to May 2018.ResultsThe examination of fecal samples revealed that overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infections among goats was 89.33%. The respective prevalence of kids, yearling, and adults were 89.16%, 98.44%, and 82.05%. The common parasitic infections prevalent were Coccidia spp. (76.89%), Entamoeba spp. (26.22%), Moniezia spp. (18.22%), Strongyle group (12.88%), Trichuris ovis (5.33%), Strongyloides papillosus (3.55%), Balantidium coli (2.66%), and Fasciola spp. (0.89%), successively. Mixed infection was recorded as 61.77% in the examined goats. The present study showed that the prevalence of infection by Coccidia spp., Moniezia spp., and Strongyle group was the highest in the yearling age group. In contrary, the infection prevalence of Entamoeba spp. was significantly high in the adult age group. No significant difference was found relying on the sex of the goats. The post-slaughtering finding showed that Haemonchus contortus was the most prevalent nematode followed by Trichuris ovis and Trichostrongylus axei. Remarkable infection percentage of Taenia hydatigena metacestode (Cysticercus tenuicolli) is recorded in the omentum of the intestine (31.85%).ConclusionsThe present study provides basic data about the most prevalent GIP diseases among goats in Giza Governorate, Egypt, which required for evaluation of the followed management and control measures. This work elicited the risk of transmission of some zoonotic diseases via goats. Fecal examination and postmortem finding-based surveys remain of choice particularly in the deprived investigating areas.

Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infections and Immunological Status of HIV/AIDS Coinfected Individuals in Nigeria.

Background:Parasitic infections of the gastrointestinal tract is one of the highest causes of morbidity and mortality among HIV infected individuals. This is due to the colonization of the intestinal tract by parasites influenced by induced enteropathy caused by HIV infection. CD+4 t-lymphocytes count is a marker of the immune status of HIV infected individuals.Objective:This study investigated the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infections among HIV coinfected individuals in relation to their immunological status.Methods:CD+4 t-lymphocytes count was determined using fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) count system. Parasitological examination of faecal samples was conducted using direct wet mount, modified Z-N and Giemsa stain techniques. All prepared slides were examined under x10 and x40 objectives.Findings:Out of the 891 HIV seropositive participants on antiretroviral therapy that were studied, 641 (71.9%) had CD+4 counts equals to or greater than 500 cells/mm3. All other seropositive participants had CD+4 counts below 500 cells/mm3. Gastrointestinal parasitic infections were recorded in 187 (20.9%) seropositive participants, with females (n = 108, 12.1%) having more infections than males. Multiple gastrointestinal parasitic infections were recorded in 28 (3.1%) seropositive participants. Out of the 150 seronegative participants, 79 (52.7%) of them had at least one gastrointestinal parasitic infection. Female seronegative participants also accounted for higher infection rate (n = 42, 28.0%) than males (n = 37, 24.7%). Multiple infections were also recorded in 18 (12.0%) seronegative individuals. The overall prevalence rate of infection between both positive and negative individuals was 25.5%. There was statistical significant difference in the infections of Cryptosporidium parvum (p < 0.003), Cyclospora cayetanensis (p < 0.011) and Cystoisospora belli (p < 0.011) between HIV seropositive and HIV seronegative individuals. Also, there was statistical significant difference in the infections of hook worm (p < 0.002) and Trichuris trichiura (p < 0.020) between seronegative and seropositive individuals. Gastrointestinal parasitic infection rate was significantly higher among seropositive participants with CD+4 counts between 200 and 350 cells/mm3 (n = 109, 58.3%).Conclusion:The study shows that HIV infected individuals continue to experience gastrointestinal infections even with antiretroviral treatment, especially those with CD+4 counts below 350 cells/mm3. Health care providers should prioritise routine screening of HIV patients for gastrointestinal parasites and provide prompt treatment. Antiparasitic drugs should also be provided as prophylaxis.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of sheep and goats slaughtered in Minna Modern Abattoir, Niger State, Nigeria

Livestock and their products are the major source of animal protein. They also play a crucial role in the economy of most nations including Nigeria. However, parasitism presents a major constraint limiting livestock production in most developing countries. Therefore, this study is aimed at determining the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of commercial sheep and goats in Minna Abattoir, Niger Sate, Nigeria. A total of one hundred and sixty-eight (168) faecal samples were collected and analyzed for the presence of gastrointestinal parasites using saturated sodium chloride floatation techniques. An overall prevalence rate of 117 (69.64%) was recorded. Among the selected ruminants used, a prevalence rate of 48 (63.16%) and 69 (75.0%) was obtained for sheep and goats respectively. Seven (7) gastrointestinal parasites were detected; these were Strongyloides spp, Trichuris spp, Haemonchus spp., Eimeria spp., Taenia spp., Moniezia spp. and Fasciola spp. Among the parasite detected, Haemonchus spp. had the highest rate of infection 30 (25.6%) followed by Strongyloides spp. 23 (19.65%) while the least prevalence rate was recorded in Moniezia spp. 8 (6.8%). Overall, male ruminants were also more infected (Sheep: 64.44% and goats:77.78% than their females counterparts (sheep: 61.29% and goats: 71.05%). The older ruminants were more infected (sheep: 69.49% and goats: 73.91%). Chi–square analysis showed that there was no significant difference (p>0.05) on the infection rate in relation to gender and age. The results of this study suggest high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infection among ruminants; therefore, effective control measures should be put in place to combat the despicable effects of gastrointestinal parasites on ruminants.

Prevalence and potential risk factors for gastrointestinal parasitic infections in children in urban Bissau, Guinea-Bissau.

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasitic infections cause significant morbidity and mortality in tropical and subtropical countries. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of GI parasitic infections in children from Bissau, Guinea-Bissau and to identify the possible risk factors for these infections. We performed an observational study on two comparable cohorts of children 2-15 y of age: one study covering health care-seeking children (n=748) and one study covering children from the background population (n=851). A total of 1274 faecal samples from the two cohorts were investigated for parasites by microscopy and the risk factors for infection were identified by logistic regression. Intestinal parasitic infections were found in 54.8% of health care-seeking children and 55.5% of children from the background population. Helminth infections were more common among health care-seeking children and were mainly due to hookworms. Pathogenic protozoa included Entamoeba histolytica/dispar and Giardia lamblia. The risk factors for infections included increasing age, household crowding and poor sanitation and water supply. We found a high prevalence of intestinal parasites among both health care-seeking children and children from the background population. Compared with previous studies, we found a decreasing prevalence of intestinal helminths. This study further identifies potential risk factors for infections, including inadequate sanitation and water supply.

Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infection of Swamp Buffalo in Banten Province, Indonesia: Prevalence, Risk Factor, and Its Impact on Production Performance

Gastrointestinal parasitic infections cause economic losses in large ruminant’s production including swamp buffalo in tropical areas. The basic epidemiological data and impact of the infections in swamp buffaloes in Indonesia are very limited. A cross sectional study was conducted to measure the prevalence, to identify the risk factor, and to evaluate the impact of gastrointestinal parasites infection on production performance (BCS and girth) of swamp buffalo in five Sentra Peternakan Rakyat (SPR) in Banten Province, Indonesia. A total of 340 fecal samples were collected and examined microscopically using modified McMaster technique. The risk factors scrutinized in this study were sex, age, farming managements, and agroclimate. Infection was found in 128 buffaloes (37.65%) consisted of Nematodes, i.e. Toxocara (0.88%), Strongyles (8.24%), Trichuris (5.29%), Strongyloides (2.94%), and Coccidia of Eimeria (30%). Age of buffaloes was the only significant risk factor for the infection. The highest infection rate was occurred in the group of pre-weaned calves (63.83%) and the lowest was found in the adults (29.66%). Pre-weaned calve group was 8.519 and 8.435 times more likely to be infected with nematodes and protozoa, respectively. The Spearman correlation test showed that the girth was negatively low-correlated and significantly to the EPG of Toxocara vitulorum, the number of protozoa oocyst as well as the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infections. BCS was not related to the infections. In conclusion, low prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infections potentially reduce the production performance of swamp buffaloes in the SPRs of Banten Province, Indonesia.

Seasonal variation in gastrointestinal parasitism of zoo-housed birds of Punjab, India

ABSTRACT The present study was envisaged with an aim to assess the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infections in zoo-housed birds of various zoological/deer parks and an aviary of Punjab, India. The fecal samples were screened using classic parasitological techniques including direct smear, floatation-concentration and sedimentation techniques. Out of 1273 samples screened, the birds of the MC Zoological Park, Bir Motibagh Deer Park Patiala, Patiala aviary, Bir Talab Deer Park Bathinda and Tiger safari Ludhiana evinced an overall gastrointestinal parasitic burden of 37.52, 25.54, 37.50, 45.39, 67.64%, respectively. The highest prevalence was recorded in the monsoon season [53.12% (95% CI = 44.52–61.73)] in the MC Zoological Park. Whereas Bir Motibagh Deer Park Patiala, Bir Talab Deer Park Bathinda and Tiger safari Ludhiana, exhibited highest prevalence of 31.91% (95% CI =20.41–43.40) (summer), 51.51% (95% CI = 36.81–66.21) (monsoon) and 87.5% (95% CI = 73.52–101.47) (winter), respectively. However, the highest prevalence [48.57% (95% CI = 34.29–62.84)] of gastrointestinal parasitism in the birds of Patiala aviary was recorded during monsoon season. The most common species of parasites recorded were of helminths: Ascaridia, Capillaria, Syngamus trachea etc.; cestodes: Hymenolepis and of coccidia. Thus, the prevalence data recorded in the present study would be availed for the implementation of control and management strategies against the parasitic burden in the zoo-housed birds.

GASTROINTESTINAL PARASITE INFECTION ON BALI CATTLE RAISED IN SEMI-INTENSIVE FARMING SYSTEM IN DOMPU, SUMBAWA ISLAND: A PRELIMINARY STUDY

To date, there are very few studies have been carried out on the effect of parasite infection on Bali cattle, and more importantly, there is no published data on the epidemiology of worm infections on Bali cattle in the island of Sumbawa, Indonesia. This research aimed to undertake a preliminary study on gastrointestinal (GI) parasitic infection on Bali cattle raised under semi-intensive farming system in five different sites in district of Dompu, Sumbawa island. Fecal samples of 76 Bali cattle, from three farmer groups namely site number 1, 4 and 5, were collected, processed and examined under a microscope, with 100x magnification, for egg fecal counting or oocyst fecal counting using the modified McMaster technique. The number of eggs/oocysts observed was then determined and identified. The results show that the eggs/oocysts ranged from 50-14800. The types of GI parasites identified were Strongyloides sp, Strongyle sp, Toxocara sp, Trichuris sp, and Coccidia. Coccidia oocyst is a type of parasite which was found with the highest percentage of 23.68% followed by Strongyle sp. (18.42%) and Toxocara sp. (10.52%). The overall prevalence of GI parasitic infection in cattle accounted for 43.42%. Young calves (0-3 months old) was more susceptible to GI parasitic infection among other age groups. This preliminary data could be used as a basic data on gastrointestinal parasitic infection in Dompu district. These results may also indicate the need to develop control strategies aiming at lowering the gastrointestinal parasitism.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of pigeons (Columba sp. Linnaeus, 1758) in three temples of Pokhara valley, Nepal

The present study was conducted to determine the general prevalence, identification, compare area-wise as well as infection-wise prevalence and find out activities on health care of pigeon (Columba sp.) in three temples viz. Bhadrakali temple, Bindhyabasini temple and Tal Barahi temple of Pokhara valley. Iodine wet mount and different concentration technique (floatation and sedimentation) were used for faecal qualitative tests whereas verbally administered questionnaires for interview and Microsoft Excel and “R” software packages were used inanalyzing data. Out of 120 faecal samples collected by opportunistic random faecal sampling method examined, general prevalence rate of parasitic infection was 69.16%. Total of seven gastrointestinal parasites that includes one subclass of protozoan: Coccidia (19.16%) and six genera of helminths: Capillaria sp. (31.67%), Ascaridia sp. (21.66%), Echinostoma sp.(7.50%), Syangamus sp. (5.83%), Hymenolepis sp. (3.33%) and Hetarakis sp. (2.50%) were identified and reported first time in Nepal. The prevalence rates (55%) of helminths were higher than protozoan parasites (19.16%). The higher prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was in Bhadrakali temple with 77.50% followed by Tal Barahi temple (72.50%) and lowest in Bindhyabasini temple (57.50%). Statistically, the difference in prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infection among study area was found to be insignificant whereas the difference in prevalence of single infection (43.83%) and mixed infections (25.83%) were also insignificant. No any activities on health care of pigeon regarding the gastrointestinal parasites were found. The study indicates that pigeons in three temples of Pokhara valley were highly susceptible to gastrointestinal parasites.

Statistical models for helminth faecal egg counts in sheep and goats

To address the problem of prevalence of gastrointestinal parasite infections faced by rural livestock farmers in the Free State Province of South Africa, we model the distribution of faecal egg counts of parasitic helminths in sheep and goats. Excess zeroes in the data results in over-dispersion, which we address by fitting Poisson, negative binomial (NB), zero inflated Poisson (ZIP) and zero inflated negative binomial (ZINB). The proposed zero inflated models explicitly isolate unexposed animals within an infected group, making them ideal for selection purposes. Distributions of parasite egg count data in both sheep and goats were zero inflated for all the species except for strongyle egg counts in goats, which fitted negative binomial distribution. Rainfall, season and site were found to be predominantly significant in determining the distribution of parasites among their host. The findings on how the covariance structure relates to the distributional assumptions assist in the formulation of the necessary interventions. For instance in setting strategies to control gastrointestinal parasite infections or in identifying animals with the desired traits. Subsequently improving the livelihood of the rural communities.

Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infections and Assessment of Deworming Program among Cattle and Buffaloes in Gampaha District, Sri Lanka.

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasitic infection is a serious issue in cattle management. The effects of GI parasites may vary with age, sex of cattle, nutritional condition, and severity of infection. Prevalence of GI parasites among cattle population in Gampaha District has not been studied and there is no published study available. A total of 45 farms rearing cattle were selected randomly in three areas, namely, Kelaniya, Ganemulla, and Welisara, under three Veterinary Surgeon Divisions (VSD) in Gampaha District (Mahara, Gampaha, and Welisara). Freshly voided cattle fecal samples were collected randomly from the selected farms during March 2017–December 2017. Out of 163 cattle and buffaloes examined, 13.39% (n=22) were positive for eggs of one or more species of GI parasites. The prevalence of parasitic infection was higher in buffaloes (31.25%, 5/16) as compared to that of cows (11.56%, 21/147), but the difference was not significant (P >0.05). Hookworms (Bunostomum spp.), whipworms (Trichuris spp.), digenetic trematodes (Paramphistomum spp.), cestodes (Moniezia spp.), and oocysts of protozoans (coccidians) were found during the study. The nontreated animals indicated the highest percentage of parasitic infections accounting for 46.67% (n= 14), followed by partially treated individuals (15.15%, n= 5). GI parasite prevalence in males was higher when compared to that of females, but the difference was nonsignificant (P >0.05). General Linear Modelling (GLM) revealed that the effect of treatment status was significantly associated with the prevalence of GI parasites. The calves and yearlings had the highest rate of GI parasitic infections. The highest infection rate was observed at Kelaniya, followed by Welisara. Future investigations are necessary to evaluate the economic impact of GI parasites in the study areas.

An epidemiological investigation of gastrointestinal parasites of small ruminants in Tangail, Bangladesh

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasitism is anegregious problem in small ruminant production system due to is impact on growth and associated cost of control measures. An epidemiological study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of small ruminants from different areas of Madhupur, Tangail. The stool samples were collected from a total of 426 goats and sheep from study areas. Specimens were subjected to Stoll’s ova counting technique and the overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infection was found 63.4%. Overall prevalence of nematodes, cestodes, trematodes and protozoa was 52.11%, 2.11%, 36.62% and 10.33%, respectively. The prevalence of parasites were variable with Fasciola spp. (8.45%), Paramphistomum spp. (28.17%), Monieziaspp. (2.11%), Haemonchus spp. (31.22%), Trichurisspp. (1.17%), Oesophagostomum spp. (10.80%), Strongyloides spp. (4.93%), Trichostrongylus spp. (2.35%), Bunostomum spp. (1.64%), Eimeria spp. (24%) and Balantidium spp. (6.34%). Parasitic ova counts in male and female exhibited no significant variations (p&gt;0.05) between them. The infection was significantly higher (65.11%) in adult than in young (58.09%). No significant (p&gt;0.05) variation was observed in infection rates between goats (64.09%) and sheep (60.67%). Seasonal variation was found significant between rainy (72.44%), winter (56.72%) and summer (61.82%) seasons. Animals with poor body conditions (74.67%) were mostly affected compared to those with moderate (62.38%) and good (39.00%) body conditions. Further attempt is necessary for a structured surveillance and monitoring of GI parasites to formulate effective control measures.J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 15(2): 255-259, December 2017

Dogs' Gastrointestinal Parasites and their Association with Public Health in Iran.

IntroductionDogs harbour zoonotic parasites that cause serious infections in humans, such as visceral larva migrans, ocular larva migrans, cystic echinococcosis, and alveolar echinococcosis. Studies on dogs’ gastrointestinal parasites in different geographical locations are required to increase knowledge of the risk of canine zoonoses in human populations.Material and MethodsThe presence of parasites was examined in 450 faecal samples collected from eight zones of Zanjan province, northwest Iran from June to November 2015. The samples were examined using the sedimentation concentration method and modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining.ResultsGastrointestinal parasites were found in 86 (19.1%) faecal samples. Sarcocystis spp. (7.3%), Taenia/Echinococcus spp. (5.6%), Toxocara spp. (1.8%), and Cystoisospora spp. (1.6%) were the most common parasites observed. The other detected parasites consisted of Dicrocoelium dendriticum (0.7%), Eimeria spp. (0.7%), Cryptosporidium spp. (0.4%), Physaloptera spp. (0.4%), Giardia spp. (1.3%), and Spirocerca lupi (1.3%). The lowest parasite infection rates belonged to Trichuris vulpis and Acanthocephalans (0.2% each).ConclusionThis study provides current information on the infection rates in dog populations in Zanjan Province. Furthermore, the study shows a high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infections, including zoonotic ones and particularly Taenia/Echinococcus spp., potentially transmissible to humans and thus relevant to public health.

Seasonal prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of goats in North -East Himalayan region of Sikkim, India

The present study was conducted to determine the reasonality of gastro intestinal parasitism in goats in a selected area in Sikkim. Of the total 1,921 faecal samples examined 1,258 (65.49%) were positive for different gastrointestinal parasitic infections with eggs per gram of faeces (EPG) in the range of 100-4,800. The most prevalent gastrointestinal helminth parasite eggs detected were strongyles (63.51%), Eimeria (54.51%), Strongyloides (34.25%), Moniezia (32.12%), Nematodirus (22.33%), Trichuris (11.71%), Dicrocoelium spp. (10.20%) and amphistome (8.95%) in decreasing order. The prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infection was high in August (82.22%) and low in January (44.08%). The seasonal distribution of gastrointestinal parasitism indicated higher percentage of infection during summer (75.29%) followed by autumn (74.54%) and spring (64.23%). The infection rate was significantly lower in winter (51.33%).

Gastrointestinal parasitism of goats in hilly region of Meghalaya, India.

Aim:The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) parasitic infections in goats of hilly region of Meghalaya.Materials and Methods:A total of 834 fecal samples of goats were screened for 1 year (2014-2015) using flotation techniques.Results:The overall prevalence of GI parasitic infections in goats was 28.65%. Season-wise highest infections were recorded during rainy season (34.92%) followed by cool (26.87%), hot (26.62%), and cold (20.39%) seasons. Helminths and protozoa infections were recorded in 63.60% and 23.02% animals, respectively. Among the helminths, Strongyle spp. (32.63%) was recorded highest followed by Trichuris spp. (12.55%), Moniezia spp. (10.04%), and Trichuris spp. (8.36%). Among protozoa, only Eimeria spp. was detected. Seven different species of Eimeria spp. were identified, viz., Eimeria christenseni, Eimeria hirci, Eimeria caprina, Eimeria jolchijevi, Eimeria ninakohlyakimovae, Eimeria arloingi, and Eimeria kocharii for the first time from Meghalaya. Maximum egg per gram and oocyst per gram of feces were recorded in the month of August (932.4) and September (674.05), respectively. Mixed infections were recorded in 13.38% samples. Coproculture of goat fecal samples revealed the presence of Haemonchus contortus (72.16%), Oesophagostomum spp. (14.41%), Strongyloides spp. (8.91%), and Trichostrongylus spp. (4.50%) larvae.Conclusion:This study indicates that GI helminths and protozoa infections are prevalent in goats of this hilly region of Meghalaya, throughout the year and highly prevalent during rainy season.