How Domestic Animals aid in the spread of Geohelminths in their faecal Deposits, Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

Domestic animals are source of protein and additional income in most families in Okpokwu Local Government Area Benue
State. This study determined the prevalence of geohelminths in the faecal deposits from some domestic animals in Okpokwu
Local Government Area. A total of 480 faecal deposits were collected into the sterile specimen bottles and examined for
presence of helminthes eggs using test tube floatation technique. Of the 480 faecal samples examined, 161(33.5%) were
positive for one or more eggs of helminth parasites. The prevalences were 20%, 15.2%, 9.8%, 5.2% and 3.8% for Ascaris
species, Toxocara species, Ancylostoma species, Strongloides and Trichuris species, respectively. The highest prevalence of
48% was recorded in Ojigo ward and the least prevalence rate of 23% in Okpale/Ingle ward with no significant difference
(p>0.05) in the distribution of eggs in the twelve (12) wards sampled. The public health importance of geohelminths eggs in
faecal deposits cannot be underestimated therefore, community health education and restriction of animals from roaming are
recommended.

Keywords: Geohelminths, Domestic animals, Faeces, Okpokwu.