Epidemiology, molecular diversity and zoonotic implications of Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto (G1) in cattle across Nigeria: Evidence of broader transmission dynamics.

Cystic echinococcosis (CE), caused by Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato, is a major zoonotic disease with significant public health and economic impacts. Despite its endemicity in Africa, molecular data on Echinococcus granulosus s.l. genotypes in Nigeria remain limited, with existing knowledge primarily derived from sparse epidemiological studies. This study presents the first nationwide molecular assessment of CE in Nigerian cattle, evaluating prevalence, genetic diversity, and risk factors. We conducted a cross-sectional study across four abattoirs to investigate the zoonotic risk of cystic echinococcosis (CE) by examining the fertility, organ distribution and molecular characterization of the hydatid cysts in cattle, genotyping by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) and NADH dehydrogenase subunit 1 (nad1) genes. Results revealed an overall CE prevalence of 2.05 %, with regional variations (highest in Abubakar Saraki [5.79 %] and Akinyele [2.59 %]). Cysts were primarily found in lungs (1.62 %) and liver (0.43 %). Molecular analysis identified E. granulosus sensu stricto (G1 genotype) as the dominant genotype, with 3 cox1 and 6 nad1 haplotypes demonstrating substantial genetic diversity. Regional differentiation suggested localized transmission linked to livestock movement. This study provides crucial epidemiological and genetic data on E. granulosus sensu stricto in Nigeria, confirming the presence of the globally dominant G1 genotype and highlighting significant genetic diversity. The findings emphasize the need for a region-specific, One Health-based approach integrating veterinary, medical, and environmental interventions to control CE. Future research should focus on expanding surveillance to other intermediate hosts and evaluating control strategies to mitigate disease transmission.