Survey of Haemoparasites of Pigs in Major Pig Markets/Farms in Makurdi Metropolis

Abstract

A survey of haemoparasites of pigs was conducted in major pig's farms (Logo 1 and North Bank ) and abattoirs (Wurukum, Railway and High Level) with in Makurdi metropolis, the Benue state capital, Nigeria. Three hundred and fifty one (351) blood samples were collected from adult pigs and were analyzed in the parasitology laboratory of Veterinary Teaching Hospital of University of Agriculture, Makurdi, using haematocrit centrifuge and thin blood smear techniques. Results showed that 7.98% pigs were positive for two haemo parasites , Eperythrozoon spp and Babesia spp. The prevalent rates of the Eperythrozoon spp and the Babesia spp were 18 (5.12%) and 6 (1.70%) respectively. There was significant difference (P  0.05) between sexes in the prevalence rate of haemoparasites infections in the pigs. There is a need for further similar study using more sensitive diagnostic techniques.

Keywords: Haemoparasites , Eperythrozoon spp, Babesia spp, Prevalence rate, Pig, PCV