Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Parasites of Cattle in and Around Hosanna Town, Southern Ethiopia.

INTRODUCTION

Gastrointestinal parasites are ubiquitous parasitic agents of cattle all over the world, and cause both clinical and subclinical parasitism that results in significant financial losses. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the prevalence and the risk variables related to gastrointestinal tract (GIT) parasites in cattle in Hossana town and the nearby area.

METHODS

On a total of 400 faecal samples, a cross-sectional investigation with a random sampling technique was carried out utilizing a coprologic parasitological examination.

RESULTS

Two hundred and sixty-nine (67.2%) of the 400 faecal samples analyzed had one or more gastrointestinal parasites. Of this, 163 (40.75%) cattle had two or more parasites while a single infection was recorded in 106 (26.5%) cattle. Mixed infection of (14%) was found a higher prevalence followed by (7.75%) as compared to other GIT parasite combination. Major classes of parasites recorded include Trematodes, Nematodes, Cestodes, and Protozoa. The major parasites observed were (18.25%), (9.5%), (8.25%), (3.25%) and (2.75%). eggs were the most predominant type of eggs identified while (2.25%) and (1.5%) were observed to have relatively lowprevalence. There was a high relationship between risk factors such as age, body condition, and management system with the prevalence of GIT parasites.

CONCLUSION

The high frequency of GIT parasite infection in cattle in the research area necessitates the strategic deworming and effective management practices necessary for gastrointestinal parasite eradication.