Summary
This cross-sectional survey of 686 cattle from 65 households in Nigeria's Edu Local Government Area quantified high prevalence of Fasciola gigantica and other trematode infections, with adult cattle significantly more susceptible than weaners. Key herd-level risk factors included cattle age, household head age, and herd size, whilst co-infections were common. The study provides evidence-based epidemiological data to inform targeted parasite control strategies in resource-limited pastoral settings.
UK applicability
Whilst Fasciola gigantica is endemic to sub-Saharan Africa and less prevalent in temperate UK systems, fasciolosis caused by Fasciola hepatica remains economically significant in UK and Irish pasture-based cattle. The study's methodology for identifying herd-level risk factors and the demonstration of high co-infection rates may inform UK parasite surveillance and control approaches, though the specific parasites and epidemiological context differ substantially.
Key measures
Prevalence of Fasciola gigantica (74.9%), paramphistomes (16.1%), Dicrocoelium hospes (7.3%), and Schistosoma bovis (1.2%); faecal egg counts; packed cell volume (PCV); FAMACHA© anaemia scores; odds ratios for infection by age group, household head age, and herd size
Outcomes reported
The study determined the prevalence of Fasciola gigantica and other trematode infections in cattle herds and identified household and herd-level risk factors associated with these parasitic infections. Faecal and blood samples were analysed, and logistic regression was used to identify significant risk associations.
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