Prevalence of fascioliasis among slaughtered goats in selected abattoirs in Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

A study of fascioliasis in goats involving a 12 months fecal examination for Fasciola eggs was carried out in five different abattoirs in Imo State, Nigeria. Out of 128 goats examined 18(14.1%) were infected. Infection was highest in Achingali abattoir (25.0%) followed by Orieagu (16.7%), Okigwe (12.2%), Afor Ogbe (12.0%) and Orlu (11.1%). Infection was significantly higher in males than females and was also age dependent. Among the Adult goats (>2yrs) examined, 20(17.2%) were infected, while out of 12 young goats (<2yrs) examined, 4(33.3%) were infected. Infection level rose with increase in rainfall, with highest level being observed at the peak of the rainy season and dropping during the dry season months. Total number of parasites was 912 and mean worm load (XWLD) was 38.0. These results underline the importance of enforcing disease control programs and health education for goat rearers in Imo State, Nigeria.