Concurent fatal helminthosis and balantidosis in red monkey (Erythrocebus patas) in Ibadan, Nigeria

Abstract

Fresh fecal specimen from a moribund red monkey (Erythrocebus patas) from the zoological garden, University of Ibadan with a history of dysentery was examined. Ova of Trichuris spp., Enterobius spp, Ancylostoma spp. and Strongyloides spp., as well as Balantidium spp oocysts were found. Post mortem, findings revealed the large intestine heavily infected with worms especially Trichuris spp., Ancylostoma spp. and Trichostronglus spp. which were enmeshed in a thick layer of mucous and blood on the mucosa. The public health importance is discussed.


KEY WORDS: Helminthosis, Balantidium, Diarrhoea, Monkey.


(Nigerian Veterinary Journal: 2002 23(2): 56-59)