Prevalence, Risk Factors and Economic Losses Associated with Fasciolosis in Slaughtered Cattle in Bauchi, North-Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

Fasciolosis is a snail-borne parasitosis of veterinary, medical and economic importance with a worldwide distribution. In this study, we determined the prevalence, risk factors and economic losses associated with the disease in slaughtered cattle in Bauchi, Nigeria using macroscopic examination at the abattoir, simple sedimentation technique and close ended structured questionnaires. We analysed our data using Chi square, Odds ratio and logistic regression at 95% confidence interval. Of the 208 samples analysed, we observed an overall prevalence of 29.8% (62/208) which varied significantly (p < 0.05) between Red Bororo (18.8%) and White Fulani (34.7%). Prevalence rates in relation to sex, management practices and body conditions varied significantly (p < 0.05) ranging between 10.9% and 90.0%. Based on sources of cattle, fasciolosis recorded highest (84.2%) and lowest (6.7%) prevalence rates in Tafawa Balewa and Bogoro respectively. A total of 312.6 kg of liver estimated at a cost of # 312,600 (1,570.9 USD) was condemned as a result of fasciolosis during our study. Approximate annual losses of liver due to this disease were estimated at 3751.2kg at a total cost of #3,751,200 (18,850.3 USD). Grazing animals in swampy areas, presence of snails around grazing sites, watering animals using streams, extensive management and lack of routine de-worming all influenced the prevalence of bovine fasciolosis in Bauchi. Fasciolosis remains prevalent and is associated with considerable economic losses in cattle slaughtered in Bauchi, Nigeria. An effective control of the disease requires improvement of management practices and routine de-worming.