Comparative prevalence of hydatidosis in slaughtered domestic ruminants at four abattoirs of central Oromia, Ethiopia

Abstract

A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2010 to May 2012 with the aim of investigating prevalence, associated risk factors and characterization of hydatidosis in domestic ruminants slaughtered for human consumption, in four selected abattoirs of central Oromia, namely Akaki, Ambo, Assela and Bishoftu. Regular visits to the abattoirs were made and a thorough examination of the visceral organs (liver, lung, heart, spleen, kidney and other tissues) were done by inspection, palpation and incision of each organs. The number, size of cysts and the organ from which the cyst recovered were also recorded. Samples of hydatid cysts were collected in a plastic bags for examination in the nearest veterinary clinic laboratory. Out of 770 camels, 2910 cattle, 20059 goats and 6680 sheep inspected for the presence of hydatid cysts, 74 (61.6%), 1896 (65.15%), 26 (0.13%) and 611 (9.15%) were found to be harboring hydatid cysts, respectively. Small, calcified and sterile hydatid cysts were found in agglomeration in the liver than other organs, while fertile and viable of medium and large cysts were most frequently observed in the lungs, spleen and abdominal cavity. Among the accessible offals to the definitive host, the lungs were found to be major contaminant viscera while the rest follow the pathway. In terms of frequency, size and fertility of the hydatid cysts, the lung was found to be the predilection site in cattle, sheep and goats, while liver in camels. This study revealed a high prevalence of hydatidosis in slaughtered domestic ruminants and thus the parasite requires serious veterinary attentions in the study area.

Key words: Abattoirs, Comparative prevalence, Fertility, Hydatidosis, Viability