Ectoparasites and endo-helminths from pigs in Abakaliki and Izzi Local Government areas, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Abstract

Parasitism affects output in pig production and introduces high risks of diseases. This study investigated ectoparasites and endo-helminths of pigs in Abakaliki and Izzi Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. One hundred and sixty eight (168) pigs were examined for both ecto- and faecal parasites. Snowball and simple random sampling techniques were employed in the study. Faecal samples collected using appropriate procedures were processed and examined using concentration techniques. Collection and processing of ectoparasites followed standard parasitological procedures. The recovered parasites were identified using morphological characteristics and standard guides. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square. Statistical significance was established at p<0.05. Overall, 44 pigs (26.1 %) were infested with ectoparasites. Pigs were infested most with Ctenocephalides canis (9.52 %) and least with Haemaphysalis species (1.79 %). There was significant difference (p = 0.042) in prevalence of C. canis with respect to sex. Sixty eight pigs (40.48 %) were infected with faecal parasites. Ascaris suum had the highest overall prevalence (17.86 %) while Taenia solium had the least (1.79 %). There was no significant difference between faecal parasite infection and age of pigs (p>0.05). However, a significant association (p = 0.026) was established between sex of pigs and infection with Fasciola hepatica. Thirteen (7.74 %) and 14(8.33 %) of the pigs were infested and infected respectively with more than one parasite taxa. Parasitism increased with advancement in age of pigs. Adequate utilization of veterinary services, good sanitation and proper training of farmers are recommended.