Nigerian Journal of Parasitology

Ecto and Gastrointestinal Parasites of Gallus gallus domesticus in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria

N.N. James-Rugu, J.E. Agbo, N.J. Paul, A.D. Ololade — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The poultry industry plays a key role in the economic development of sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Nigeria. It is regarded as the fastest way to solve the problem of protein deficiency in the region; however, parasitic diseases threaten the economy and health of chickens. In this study, we examined chickens' gastrointestinal tract and ectoparasite to increase awareness of poultry parasites disrupting the parasite lifecycle. Four hundred and fifty-nine intestinal tracts were collected at the slaughter point for gastrointestinal parasite screening using formal-ether concentration techniques and saturated sodium chloride floatation techniques, and 300 chickens were assessed for ectoparasite collection. A skin scraping was performed on each chicken using a sterilised scalpel blade, and feathers were plucked from areas such as the vent, neck, and under the wings, where ectoparasites were predilected. Findings in the study showed that the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites; cestode, nematode, and protozoan, was 76 %, and a prevalence of 57 % for ectoparasites; mites, lice, ticks, and fleas, encountered in the study. The high prevalence of parasites in the chicken population highlights the multifaceted potential of the spread of parasites in the environment and the challenges of the proximity of chickens to humans and underscores the urgent need to implement strategic interventions for sustainable poultry health.

Molecular Confirmation of Anopheles coluzzii as the Major Malaria Vector in Relation to Seasonal Abundance, Biting Behaviour, and Wing Development for Vectoral Capacity in Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Aproper understanding of the dynamics of malaria vectors is an important tool for vector control measures and the prevention of mosquito bites within the study area. This study was conducted to determine the species composition, biting behaviour, and abundance of mosquitoes with respect to seasons in the sampled mosquitoes in Abraka community of Ethiope East L.G.A, Delta State, Nigeria. Adult Anopheles mosquitoes were collected indoors and outdoors using CDC light traps for 10 months; from May 2022 to February 2023 and the entomological indices were examined. A total of 343 mosquitoes were obtained from this study, and the difference between outdoor and indoor mosquitoes was significant (p<0.05). The collected Anopheles mosquitoes were morphologically identified as Anopheles gambiae sensu lato. PCR screening confirmed the presence of Anopheles coluzzii. The wing lengths of the mosquitoes obtained outdoors were significantly (p<0.05) longer than those obtained indoors. Furthermore, biting peaks were observed between the hours of 8-9 pm and 2-3 am. The differences between the abundance of mosquitoes with time and traps were significant (F (biting = 6.10, p= 0.0028; F =20.97, p= 0.0008). Mosquitoes were more abundant in time) (trap) September (especially indoors) than in the other sampled months, and the lowest catch was in August. The number of mosquitoes obtained in the rainy months was significantly higher (F =6.56, p= 0.03) than that in the dry months. (seasons) Sporozoites were not found in the mosquitoes. In conclusion, the findings of this study showed that An. coluzzii was the major malaria vector in this location. Hence, targeted outdoor mosquito control measures should be applied before September to reduce the malaria burden in the study area.

Nigeria’s Experience in Determining that Loiasis Presented No Risk to Ivermectin Treatment for Onchocerciasis

B.E.B Nwoke — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Nigeria accounts for approximately 40% of the global onchocerciasis burden, affecting more than 50 million people. Onchocerciasis constitutes a major social and public health problem and therefore cannot be taken for granted. The discovery and free donation of ivermectin (Mectizan®) encouraged Nigeria and other endemic countries to implement Mass Drug Administration (MDA) in atrisk population. Unfortunately, reports from some onchocerciasis-endemic African countries where onchocerciasis is co-endemic with Loa loa indicate that Severe Adverse Events (SAEs) may occur in patients who have taken ivermectin. This threatens the success of the onchocerciasis control/elimination programme in many of these onchocerciasis-endemic African countries where Loa loa is coendemic. Nigeria commenced MDA in 1988 in endemic communities of Kwara and Kaduna States and later expended MDA to nearly all the transmission zones and tens of millions of people have been treated with ivermectin including areas presumed to be onchocerciasis- loiasis co-endemic zone. One striking observation is that there was no evidence of SAEs in Nigeria. Of the 758 SAEs reported to the Mectizan Donation Program between 1990 and 2014, only one suspicious case (0.1%) was reported in Nigeria (around Kwara State, a non- loiasis belt). The international scientific community has continued to ask questions concerning this. For instance, the WHO Loa loa Expert Committee met in Paris, France, August 28-30, 2024 and wanted to know the Nigerian experience in determining that loiasis presented no risk to ivermectin treatment for onchocerciasis. In doing so, the Expert Committee asked the following questions: (a) what are the Rapid Epidemiological Mapping of Loiasis (RAPLOA) exercises in Nigeria; (b) what is the more recent data collected on Loa loa microfilaria density that led Nigeria to determine that MDA for onchocerciasis was safe; (c) do Nigerians think that the RAPLOA data differed so much from the microfilaria density data?, and (d) did loiasis endemicity change over time or is the relationship between RAPLOA and mf density different in Nigeria? As the Chairman of Nigerian Onchocerciasis Elimination Committee (NOEC), the present work addresses these programmatic questions.

Molecular Characterisation of Anopheles gambiae Complex and Its Preferred Blood-meal Hosts in the Southern Part of Gombe State, Northeast Nigeria

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Baseline data on the distribution and genetic variability of malaria vector species are key to effective malaria control in endemic areas. This study characterised Anopheles gambiae s.l. and their preferred blood-meal hosts in the Southern Part of Gombe State using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) probing, respectively. The overall results from the
226 An gambiae s.l populations revealed the predominance of An. coluzzii 68 (51.13%) followed by An. gambiae s. s. 61 (45.86%), while the least was An. 2 arabiensis 4 (3.11%). The analysis of the population varied significantly ( = 41.794, df = 2, P < 0.05). An. coluzzii 32 (54.24%) was also the most abundant species in Billiri, followed by An. gambiae s. s. 25 (42.37%), while An. arabiensis 2 4 (3.11%) was the least abundant. The species abundance varied significantly ( = 42.461, df = 2, P < 0.05). However, in Kaltungo, An. gambiae s. s. and An. coluzzii had the same species evenness 36 (48.65%). The preferred blood meal of the fed mosquitoes was human blood 86 (38.91%), followed by bovine blood 41 (18.14%), whereas the least preferred 33 (14.60%) was goat blood. The An. gambiae s. s. predominantly fed on humans 24 (39.34%) followed by bovine blood (8 (13.11%) and then goat blood 7 (11.48%), similarly, An. coluzzii 24 (35.29%) preferred human blood followed by bovine 16 (23.53%) blood while An. arabiensis demonstrated a similar preference for both human and bovine blood 1 (25.00%). This study clearly showed the presence of three Anopheles species siblings in Gombe South, with the most dominant being An. coluzzi followed by An. gambiae s.s., whereas An. arabiensis was the least. Therefore, there is a need to intensify the use of insecticide-treated nets by inhabitants of the two communities to reduce man-vector contact.

Analysis of Parasitic Infections in Oreochromis niloticus and Clarias gariepinus Obtained from Selected Fish Farms in Calabar, Nigeria

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Freshwater fish species harbour parasitic organisms, serving as either intermediate or definitive hosts for parasites that can be harmful to humans and animals. This study was conducted to assess the prevalence of parasites in two fish species obtained from selected farms in Calabar, Nigeria. Collection, examination, sex determination, and identification were performed using the recommended procedures. A total of 300 fish samples from four fish farms were examined for parasites, and 88 (29.3%) were found to be infected. The highest prevalence of parasitic infection was observed at the Nyahansang fish farm (41.3%), whereas the lowest prevalence was recorded at the University of Calabar (UNICAL) fish farm (18.7%). Gyrodactylus sp. (8.3%) were the most prevalent parasites, followed by Trichodina spp. (6.7%); Dactylogyrus sp. (4.7%); Aeromonas sp. (3.0%); Eustrongylides sp. (2.3%); Henneguya pinnae (2.3%); Ergasilus labracis (1.3%); and Chilodonella sp. (0.7%). Oreochromis niloticus had the highest parasite prevalence (54 [36.0%] ) compared to that of Clarias gariepinus(34 [22.7%] ). The prevalence of parasites was higher in females (31.4 %) than males (27.2%). In O. niloticus, 25 males (34.2%) and 29 females (37.7%) harboured parasites, but the comparison between sexes showed no significant difference (p>0.05). Similarly, in C. gariepinus, 15 males (20.3%) and 19 females (25.0%) harboured parasites, with no significant difference observed between the sexes (p>0.05). This study revealed the considerable prevalence of parasitic infections in the two fish species used. The results of this study highlight the potential risks posed by parasites on aquaculture, fish health, and economic sustainability. A deeper understanding of these parasitic dynamics is crucial for enhancing fish health, improving aquaculture productivity, and fostering sustainable fish farming practices in Nigeria.

Prevalence and Molecular Characterization of Schistosome Species Detected among Primary School Pupils around Gwaigwaye Reservoir, Funtua Local Government Area of Katsina State

K.B. Dikwa, R Abubakar, D.M. Dibal, I.C.J. Omalu, A. Dambo, M. Muhammed — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Schistosomiasis, caused by Schistosoma haematobium and Schistosoma mansoni, causes morbidity and mortality throughout the African region, raising concerns about public health. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and molecular characterization of schistosome species affecting primary school students in the Funtua Local Government Area of Katsina State. Pupils from five different primary schools in Gwaigwaye were randomly selected to provide urine and stool samples which were analyzed using sedimentation and formal ether concentration methods for S. haematobium and S. mansoni, respectively. Positive samples were characterized using Polymerase Chain Reaction. Data obtained were analyzed using GraphPad instant version statistical software package. The molecular characterization revealed the presence of two species of Schistosomes which were S. haematobium and S. mansoni. The results showed a prevalence of 35.8% and 15.3% for S. haematobium and S. mansoni, respectively. The highest prevalence of 36.1% and 16.9% were observed for S. haematobium and S. mansoni among age groups 10-15 years. Males had a higher prevalence of 40.4% and 19.3% for S. haematobium and S. mansoni than females who had 25.0% and 5.8%, respectively. The prevalence of both S. haematobium and S. mansoni infection vary significantly with respect to age and sex. Conclusively, this study showed that both S. haematobium and S. mansoni remain prevalent in the study area and appropriate control measures such as treatment of all infected individuals, should be employed to reduce the prevalence of both S. haematobium and S. mansoni.

Prevalence of Parasites on Door Handles of School Shuttle Buses in Federal University Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria

M.O. Alhassan, D. Tanko, F.I. Egbinola, M.K. Usman, O.T. Soniran — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of parasites (protozoan cysts and helminths ova) on door handles of school shuttle buses at the Federal University Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria, between March and October 2023. Atotal of 120 samples from the door handles of 20 shuttle buses were analysed using the formol-ether concentration technique to determine the presence of intestinal parasites. Light microscopy was used for morphological identification of parasites. The results showed that out of the 120 samples examined, 31(25.8%) had one or more parasites. The ova of helminth species found were Ascaris lumbricoides 7(13.5%), Strongyloides stercoralis 7(13.5%), Taenia 6(11.5%), Trichuris trichiura 5(9.6%), Fasciola hepatica 3(5.8%), whereas the intestinal protozoan isolates were Entamoeba histolytica 9(17.3%), Iodamoeba butschili 6(11.5%), Giardia lamblia 4(7.7%), Pentatrichomonas hominis 5(9.6%). Out of the six different door handles examined (A to C) for each shuttle bus, the driver exit handle A had the highest prevalence of (30.8%), followed by the passengers’ 2 entrance handle B (21.2%), passenger exit handle B (17.3%), passengers 1 2 entrance handle C (13.5%), driver entrance handle A (11.5%) while passengers 1 2 exit handle C had the lowest prevalence of (5.7%). There was a significant 2 difference (p=0.04) in the prevalence of parasites contaminating the different door handles. Asurvey of 236 shuttle bus users revealed that 71 (30.1%) were male and 165 (69.9%) were female, with 172 (72.9%) reporting hand cleaning after toilet use but only 36.9% using soap. This indicates that proper hand washing habits were not practiced. When hands are not washed properly after passing out faeces and are used to touch the door handles of shuttle buses, it leads to contamination with parasitic cysts and ova. The constant use of shuttle buses on school campuses puts students and staff at risk of parasitic infection.

Efficacy of Co-Administration of Zinc Supplement and ArtesunateAmodiaquine in the Treatment of Malaria-Infected Mice

C. I Onu, J. Badaki, J.C. Atawodi, G.I. Ogu, I.O. Muhammed — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs), such as AS-AQ, are recommended by the WHO for malaria treatment and are sometimes coadministered with antioxidants to reduce oxidative stress, although these agents may interfere with the treatment. This study investigated the effects of zinc supplementation on the antimalarial efficacy of artesunate-amodiaquine (AS-AQ) in mice infected with Plasmodium berghei. In this experiment, 25 mice were divided into five groups: negative control (uninfected), positive control (infected, untreated), and three treatment groups (zinc only, AS-AQ only, and AS-AQ with zinc). Parasitaemia was induced, and the treatments were administered daily for three days. One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to analyse the data. Results showed that AS-AQ alone cleared the parasite by day two, with a 100% survival rate and improved blood parameters. AS-AQ combined with zinc also cleared the parasite but had a lower survival rate (40%), indicating potential toxicity of the combination despite the maintained antimalarial efficacy. Zinc alone did not effectively control parasitaemia. The study revealed that zinc supplementation did not alter the antiplasmodial efficacy of the ACT partner, and it may have displayed toxicity that affected the survival rate of mice. This suggests that zinc supplementation does not have any beneficial effect as an antioxidant in the treatment of malaria infection, and its co-administration with ACTs may not be safe.

Current Status of Intestinal Schistosomiasis in Two Different Rural Settings, Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate, Egypt

H. Elhadad, E.S. El-Wakil, M.M. Mohamed, M.A. Mohamed, S.M. Abdo — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease that has been selected for elimination. Egypt is one of the endemic areas for Schistosoma mansoni. Preventive programmes have been adopted to fight schistosomiasis with great progress. This study aimed to assess the status of intestinal schistosomiasis among residents of two rural endemic settings in Kafrelsheikh Governorate, Egypt and evaluate the associated risk factors for infection. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 437 residents from El-Roos and El-Salahba villages aged from 5 to 30 years. Stool samples were examined for the presence of S. mansoni using the Kato-Katz stool thick smear technique. The prevalence of S. mansoni was 14.4% among participants of El-Salahba, however, no solitary case was detected in ElRoos. Most infected children (80.6%) had light-intensity of schistosomiasis. A statistically significant association was detected between Schistosoma infection and gender (OR=2.302, 95% CI: 1.107–4.785, p < 0.026), canal water contact (OR=4.388, 95% CI: 2.071 – 9.297, p < 0.001), skin itching (OR=3.312, 95% CI: 1.606 – 6.826, p = 0.001), the presence of abdominal pain (OR=2.523, 95% CI: 1.057 – 6.025, p = 0.037), and the presence of blood in stools (OR=11.044, 95% CI: 4.636 – 26.311, p < 0.001). Continuous monitoring and evaluation of the prevalence of schistosomiasis are crucial for control programs.

Human Ophidascaris Infection: A possibility in all Ecological Biotopes of Nigeria

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Recently, Ophidascariasis was established as a zoonotic infection following the report of human neural larval migrans caused by Ophidascaris robertsi in an Australian woman. Ophidasacaris robertsi is an intestinal parasite of the Australian carpet python which may have infected the woman through the consumption of contaminated vegetables or the contamination of kitchen utensils with eggs of the parasite. Ophidascaris larvae are frequently encountered in anuran amphibians in all ecological biotopes in Nigeria. Some common snake species have been established as definitive hosts of Ophidascaris in Nigeria. The presence of these snakes in rural farms and peri- urban gardens raises the possibility of contamination of vegetables and fruit with parasite eggs, which can lead to human infection. In order to draw attention to the possible danger of human infection with this parasite, we compiled available information from previous and ongoing investigations to establish that human ophidascariasis is a possibility in Nigeria. Precautionary measures to prevent human infections have been suggested.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Cryptosporidium Infections in Diarrhoeic and Non-Diarrhoeic Cattle and Nomadic Pastoralists Populations in Abeokuta North and Odeda Local Governments Areas, Ogun State, Nigeria

J. Jonathan, S.O. Sam-Wobo, O.A. Talabi, U.F. Ekpo, O.P. Akinwale — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Cryptosporidium, an enteric protozoan parasite, is a significant cause of diarrhoeal diseases in both humans and animals. This study utilised a crosssectional design to determine the prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in cattle and nomadic pastoralists in Abeokuta North and Odeda Local Government Areas, Ogun State, Nigeria. Atotal of 900 faecal samples were collected, 450 from cattle and 450 nomadic across six communities. The samples were analysed using the modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining technique. The findings revealed an Overall the prevalence of Cryptosporidium was 40.7% (183/450) among cattle and 36.4% (164/450) among nomadic pastoralists. Among the cattle, the prevalence of Cryptosporidium in non-diarrhoeic cattle was 36.9% (110/298) [OR: 1.765; CI: 1.170-2.664], while diarrhoeic cases showed a prevalence of 48.0% (73/152) [OR: 1.932; CI: 0.993-3.761], with a statistically significant difference between nondiarrhoeic and diarrhoeic cases in cattle (P<0.05). In nomadic pastoralists, the prevalence was 38.5% (132/345) [OR: 0.712; CI: 0.438-1.156] for non-diarrhoeic cases and 29.9% (32/107) [OR: 1.405; CI: 0.865-2.285] for diarrhoeic cases, and there was a significant difference in non-diarrhoeic cases among nomads (P<0.05). Male cattle in the group of 15-25 exhibited the highest Cryptosporidium prevalence at 41.4% (110/266), compared to 39.7% (73/184) in female cattle in the group of 10-25. In the nomadic population, males had a higher prevalence of 37.6% (94/250) compared to 35.0% (70/200) in females. The detection of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts in the faeces of both cattle and nomadic pastoralists indicate the need for targeted interventions in pastoral communities.

Comparison of Traditional and New Methods of Obliterating Residual Space After Echinococcectomy

A. K Babadjanov, A. I. Tuksanov, F. R Yakubov, D. S Sapaev, S. S. Ibrokhimov — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In the surgery of liver echinococcosis in the Republic of Uzbekistan, organpreserving minimally invasive and traditional interventions continue to dominate in clinics with various levels of healthcare. Against this background, one of the urgent issues remains the option of treating the residual cavity after echinococcectomy, implying both antiparasitic efficacy and the possibility of accelerating the process of obliteration of the fibrous capsule. This study highlights the results of echinococcectomy of the liver, considering the method of treatment of residual cavities with elastic and rigid fibrous capsules. It was determined that an improved method of treating the residual cavity in uncomplicated forms of liver echinococcosis in the presence of an elastic fibrous capsule that subsides after parasite extraction includes laser radiation. This provides the possibility of treating cavities of any configuration and inhibiting the growth of the pathogenic flora. When combined with the powdered composition "HEMOBEN" this method promotes local hemo and lymphostasis, sealing of microspheres bile ducts and increased obliteration of the walls of the fibrous capsule both during suturing and vacuum drainage. In another method, the use of high-energy laser exposure results in the destruction of a dense, rigid (nondisintegrating) fibrous capsule, ensuring not only the pliability of its walls by creating folds in the zones of induced destruction (by the type of pleating) but also the formation of zones of enhanced regeneration. Sanitisation of the residual cavity with FarGALS solution after preliminary laser destruction provides additional antiparasitic chemical effects owing to the penetration of the antiseptic into the deep layers of the thickened capsule. Thus, this method can be used as an alternative to pericystectomy and liver resection.

Phytochemical Investigation of Essential Oil and Organic Extracts of Vitex trifolia L. and their Larvicidal Activities Against Aedes aegypti Larvae In Penang, Malaysia

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Aedes aegypti is one of the major species of mosquitoes considered to be highly dangerous, as it transmits diseases such as dengue fever and dengue haemorrhagic fever, which are major public health problems in Malaysia. The use of botanicals in the control of Aedes aegyptiis essential because of the development of mosquito resistance against most synthetic insecticides employed for vector control. This study was conducted to investigate the phytochemical effects of the essential oil and organic extracts of Vitex trifolia L. and their larvicidal activities against Aedes aegyptilarvae in Penang, Malaysia. The stems, leaves, fruits, and flower buds of V. trifolia plants were collected, air-dried, and extracted using hydrodistillation and maceration methods. The phytochemical constituents were investigated using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The larvicidal activity of V. trifolia was evaluated against third-instar larvae of Aedes aegypti after 24 h of treatment. The results revealed that the highest larvicidal activity was observed with the methanolic flower bud extract and the chloroform flower bud extract which resulted in 100% larval mortality at the lowest concentration of 17.5 ppm. Moreover, the methanol flower bud extract of V. trifolia showed relatively high larvicidal activity against the third instar larvae of Ae. aegypti with a relatively low LC and LC of 9.59 ppm and 16.03 ppm, respectively. However, methanol stem 50 90 extract showed the highest LC and LC of 615.41 ppm and 763.56 ppm, 50 90 respectively, leading to the lowest larvicidal activities. In addition to the essential oils obtained, the results revealed the presence of phytochemicals, including flavonoids, saponins, tannins, glycosides, and steroids in the plant extract. In conclusion, the larvicidal activity profile of the essential oil from the sample depends on its concentration and extraction techniques. Therefore, additional quantitative research on these phytochemicals should be conducted to investigate their biomedical functions.

Evaluation of Onchocerciasis Using Seroprevalence in Four Selected Communities in Ivermectin-treated Local Government Areas of Kogi State, Nigeria

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Onchocerciasis is a parasitic infection caused by Onchocerca volvulus and has a damaging effect on humans. Kogi State communities have been consistently treated with ivermectin for the past ten years. Hence a seroprevalence study of onchocerciasis was conducted in five communities (Ejegbo, Enokpoli, Igalagbo, Ohuhapa and Oke-Oba) across four local governments (Ankpa, Olamaboro, Okene and Yagba East of Kogi State in July 2019. The investigation was carried out using SD Bioline Onchocerciasis IgG4 kit to screen a total number of 736 participants across the five communities. Questionnaires were administered to elicit information such as age, sex, occupation and ivermectin compliance from the participants. Of the 736 participants screened in the four ivermectin-treated LGAs, only one positive case was recorded (0.14%) which was found in the Igalagbo community with a seroprevalence of 0.68% (n=148). Of the 396 females screened, one (0.3%) was seropositive while the males (340) were seronegative. Age-wise, it was recorded in the (>50) years age group, and occupationally, the trading occupation seroprevalence was 0.72% (n=138). With regards to compliance, individuals in the communities had a high compliance rate (>90%) with ivermectin treatment. In conclusion, our results suggest that the prevalence of onchocerciasis in these communities is low. Hence, a sustained mass drug administration of ivermectin by Community Directed Distributors (CDDs) in our endemic communities will eventually interrupt the transmission and the hope of elimination will be achieved in our country and globally

Anti-trypanosomal Activity of Leaf Extracts of Andrographis paniculata in Trypanosoma brucei brucei-infected Mice

A. Ismail, I.C.J. Omalu, S.O. Abolarinwa, M. Abdullahi, K.A. Adeniyi, I.M. Ocha — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

African Animal Trypanosomiasis is a disease of major economic and public health importance, especially with the current setback in the treatment of cases using synthetic anti-trypanosomal agents. As a result, there is an urgent need to identify alternative compounds for chemotherapy. Therefore, the present study investigated the phytochemical composition, acute oral toxicity, and in vivo antitrypanosomal efficacy of crude methanol, n-hexane fraction, and ethyl acetate fraction of Andrographis paniculata (king of bitters) leaf in Trypanosoma brucei brucei-infected mice. The methanol extract was screened for the presence of secondary metabolites by using standard methods. The crude plant extract and fractions were administered orally to the parasite-infected mice at doses of 300 and 600 mgkg-1 body weight (b. wt) following standard procedures. The result was compared to Diminazine aceturate which was given at the recommended dose of 3.5 mgkg-1 b. wt subcutaneously. Phytochemical screening has revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, phenols, glycosides, steroids, tannins, and anthraquinones. Diminazine aceturate gave a 100% parasite clearance, and the mice survived throughout the study period (60.00±0.00) days. A. paniculata extract at 600 mgkg-1 b. wt was found to be effective in reducing the parasite multiplication by 43.58 % and extending the life span of the treated mice to (10.50±0.50) days compared to the untreated control, (7.45±0.55) days. Ethyl acetate fraction on the other hand was found to be more effective in reducing the parasitaemia level (61.33 % and 75.63 %) and extending the life span of the mice to (12.50±0.34) and (15.76±0.23) days for both 300 and 600 mgkg-1 b. wt doses respectively, whereas the n-hexane gave a limited trypanocidal effect of 9.89 % and 21.15 %. The results obtained in the present study suggest the ethnopharmacological usefulness of the plant and necessitate further studies on isolated active substances from this plant.

In vitro Anthelmintic Efficacy of Ethanolic Extract of Three PhenolContaining Plants against Haemonchus contortus

A.O. Yusuf, A .J. Owolabi, A.O. Sonibare, O.S. Sowande — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Arising from the loss of potency of the available chemical anthelmintics coupled with resistance development by gastrointestinal nematodes, this study aimed at investigating the effect of Acacia nilotica (gum arabic tree), Acacia ataxacantha (Flame Thorn) and Ziziphus mucronata (buffalo-thorn) on egg hatching and larva development of Haemonchus contortus. The selected plants were screened for their total phenol, condensed tannin, and non-tannin phenol concentrations. Anthelmintic extracts were prepared and tested at concentrations of 10, 5, 1, 0.5, 0.25 and 0.05 mg/ml in the egg hatch inhibition assay. Thiabendazole was used as a positive control, whereas distilled water was used as a negative control. The three most effective concentrations from the egg inhibition assay were used for larval development at 10, 5, and 1 mg/ml dissolved in 150, 300, and 450 μl of water. Acacia nilotica extracts of all concentrations led to greater (P<0.05) inhibition of egg hatching compared to the negative and positive control. Acacia ataxacantha extract showed an increased egg hatching inhibition than the positive control (P>0.05), while Z. mucronata extracts were less effective than the positive control (P<0.05). Acacia nilotica extract did inhibit larva development more effectively than the negative control (P<0.05), while Acacia ataxacantha showed volume-dependent effectiveness, with lower concentrations showing reduced (P<0.05) inhibition rates. Z. mucronata exhibited the least inhibitory effect on larval migration. In conclusion, Acacia species have a greater inhibitory effect on both egg hatching and larval migration than Z. mucronata.

Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites in Pigs: A Study of Selected Pig Farms in Umuahia South LGA, Abia State, Nigeria

O.C. Amoke, V.E. Nwosu — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Swine production faces numerous challenges, particularly with respect to parasites and diseases, which can significantly affect productivity and animal health. This study determined the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in pigs from large breeding facilities in Umuahia South Local Government Area, Abia State, Nigeria. One hundred freshly passed faecal samples were collected from five farms, with 10g of each sample analysed using sedimentation and microscopically examined to identify parasites, eggs, and cysts. Data on independent variables, including age, sex, and farm management practices, were obtained through structured interviews. Chi-square analysis was used to assess the associations between dependent and independent variables. The overall parasite prevalence was 73.0%, with Strongyloides ransomi being the most common species (48%), followed by Balantidium coli (26%), and Ascaris suum (3%). The prevalence in male pigs was 75.0%, which was slightly higher than that in females (72.4%). Among the age groups, piglets (1–5 months) showed the highest prevalence (73.9%). Single infections were recorded in 54.0% of the pigs, whereas 19.0% had mixed infections. Chi- square analysis revealed no significant association (p>0.05) between parasite prevalence and demographic factors, indicating a uniform distribution of risk across sex, age groups, and farms. The high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites highlights the need for enhanced parasite control measures, regular deworming programs, improved farm hygiene, and farmer education to mitigate infection risks and improve swine health and productivity.

Synergistic Efficacy of Methanolic Extract of Nerium oleander Leaf Combined with Praziquantel against Hydatid Cyst Protoscolices

H.R. Al-Abodi — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Hydatid disease is a serious disease that is widespread worldwide. Its harm to humans is significant. There is a need to discover and develop new treatments in conjunction with the evolution of the parasite. Hydatid cysts were collected from the Al-Diwaniyah General Hospital, Surgery Department and transferred to the laboratory. Protoscolices were extracted for in vitro effects by preparing different concentrations of each therapeutic compound (5, 30, and 50 mg/mL) for 5, 10, 20, and 30 min. The synergistic compound (niosomes loaded by methanolic extract of N. oleander leaves with praziquantel) showed complete eradication of 100% at concentrations of 30 mg/ ml and 50 mg/ml in periods specified in the experiment Niosomes loaded with the methanolic extract of oleander leaves also achieved excellent results as a delivery vehicle of the plant extract to increase its effectiveness in eliminating protoscolices at a concentration of 50 mg/ml in the 20th minute from the beginning of the experiment. The synergistic compound outperformed all the therapeutic compounds studied in terms of the rates of in vitro eradication of protoscolices. The synergistic combination of methanolic extract of N. oleander leaves and praziquantel was highly effective in eradicating protoscoleces. However, it showed dispersion according to the standard deviation values; therefore, its effect is not stable, and it is suitable for use in cases of acute infections. Niosomes loaded with methanolic extract of N. oleander leaves were highly efficient in killing protoscolices, and their effect was stable and balanced, which makes it possible to propose them as a suitable treatment for many cases of infection.