Prevalence of Gastro-Intestinal Parasites of Pigs in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

There is a growing concern for pig parasites as a bottleneck for low productivity and reduction in the market value of pork meat. The economic losses resulting from gastrointestinal parasites of pigs are quite enormous. This study was designed to investigate the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of pigs in Jos Plateau State, Nigeria. The faecal samples of pigs were examined for parasites using direct smear method. The result showed that of the 502 faecal samples examined for parasites, 66.34% were infected with some parasites. In order of abundance, Ascaris suum occurred more frequently followed by Trichuris suis and eimeria sp. With respect to breed, the large white pigs were found to harbor more (68.80%) parasites than the mixed breed (59.46%). The results revealed that the adult pigs = 9 months had the highest infection rate (89.95%), followed by Baconers 7-8 months (59.88%), and the least was the Pokers 5-6 months (43.97%) and was significantly different (P0.05) observed. The results based on season showed that there was no significant difference (P>0.05). Gastrointestinal parasites cause serious economic losses to pig farmers. The condition is associated with poor sanitary conditions and poor pig management practices. Therefore, a very good management practices which incorporate ideal housing system, feeding and proper hygiene coupled with an effective anthelminthic treatment programme should be carefully followed by pig farmers.

Keywords: Pigs, gastro-intestinal parasites, Plateau State, Ascaris suum, poor sanitation

Nigerian Journal of Parasitology, Vol. 32 [1] March 2011, pp. 37-40