Prevalence and Economic Importance of Fascioliasis in Cattle, Sheep and Goats in Kenya

Abstract

A 10 year (1990-1999) retrospective study using post mortem records was carried out at Veterinary Department Headquarters Kabete to determine the prevalence and economic importance of fasciolosis in cattle, goats and sheep in Kenya. Records from abattoirs in 38 districts in 7 provinces of Kenya were examined. Fasciolosis prevalence was calculated. Using an average weight of (3kg) cattle and (0.5) sheep and goats and market price of approximately US $ 2.0 per Kg, the monetary loss occasioned by condemnation of Fasciola infected livers was calculated. Out of 5,421,188 cattle, 1,700,281 sheep and 2,062,828 goats slaughtered, 427,931 cattle (8%), 61,955 sheep (3.6%) and 48,889 goats (2.4%) were infected with Fasciola. The highest prevalence was recorded in western province (16% for cattle, 10% for sheep and 9% for goats). The lowest was in coast province (3.5%cattle, 0.74% sheep and 0.5%). The economic loss due to condemnation of infected liver from cattle, sheep, and goats was US$ 2.6million, US$ 61,995 and US$48,889 respectively. Fasciolosis is prevalent in cattle, sheep and goats in Kenya and a major cause of economic losses, as a result of condemnation of infected livers.

The Kenya Veterinarian Vol. 27 2004: pp. 118-123