Prevalence and distribution of toxocariosis in some sedentary herds of calves within Auyo Local Government, Jigawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Toxocariosis is a gastrointestinal disease of cattle and buffalo caused by Toxocara (Neoascaris) vitulorum with high morbidity and mortality; and affects negatively the production of beef, dairy and cattle products. There is dearth in information on the disease in Auyo Local Government, Jigawa State. The study was conducted to determine the prevalence and distribution of Toxocariosis in sedentary herds of cattle in the study area. A total of 227 calves were examined for presence Toxocara eggs in faeces, faecal consistency, and body condition score (BCS) from February 2022 to October, 2023. Chi –square was used to analyse the data collected. An overall prevalence of 60.8% (138/227) was recorded. Calves within age range >1month - ≤ 3 months, 92.0% (46/52) significantly (P < 0.05) expelled more eggs than other age groups in the study. Based on breeds, prevalence was higher in White Fulani,79.0% (49/62) and lowest in Red Bororo 54.4% (77/147). Chi – square analysis indicated association between eggs in faeces and breeds examined. Toxocara eggs in female’s faeces 63.1% (65/103) was higher than in males 58.9% (73/124). By seasons, prevalence in dry and rainy seasons were 67.9 (57/84) and 56.4%(81/143 respectively. There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in prevalence of eggs between the two seasons. Attributed to faecal consistency,69.7% (124/49) of the calves examined with normal faeces consistency were positive for Toxocara eggs while 28.6% (14/49) with watery faeces were positive. There was no statistical significant (P > 0.05) association between presence of Toxocara eggs in faeces and faecal consistency. Prevalence of Toxocariosis was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in calves in good condition 10.7% (8/75) when compared to members of the category. Yamidi herd recorded highest prevalence, 70.3 (23/37) of toxocariosis among the villages. Results from the study showed high prevalence of Toxocariosis among calves, hence appropriate prevention, treatment, control measures and cattle herder’s awareness be raised in the area.