Occurrence of haemoparasites in cattle from three selected abattoirs in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Rivers State, Nigeria.

Abstract

Haemoparasites infestation in cattle cause significant economic loss due to morbidity and mortality and pose a major threat to food security, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. This research aimed at determining the prevalence of haemoparasites in cattle from three selected abattoirs in Port Harcourt metropolis, Rivers State, Nigeria. Blood samples were collected via jugular vein ligation into an Ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) bottle and examined for haemoparasites using standard laboratory techniques, after consent was obtained from cattle owners. Blood parasites detected were identified using keys. An overall prevalence of 21.31% was recorded; with 13 out of 61 samples examined being infected. Thirteen (13) male cattle were examined, out of which 4(30.77%) were infected; while, 9(18.75%) out of the 48 female cattle examined were infected. Although the males recorded a higher prevalence of infection than the females, the difference in prevalence between the sexes was not significant (P>0.05). Two tick-borne haemoparasites, namely Babesia sp. and Theileria sp. were recorded. Babesia sp. was found in 6(9.84%) while 11(18.03%) of Theileria were recorded (P<0.05). Abattoir-based prevalence indicated that of the 27 cattle examined in Aluu abattoir, 4(14.81%) were infected. Out of the 15 cattle examined in Choba abattoir, 3(20.00%) were infected; while of the 19 samples examined in Rumuosi abattoir, 6(31.58%) were infected. There was no significant association between the prevalence of infection and abattoirs sampled (P>0.05). High prevalence of haemoparasites indicates a potential risk of zoonosis among the population. Advanced studies on the disease’s epidemiology are needed for effective investigation and control strategies.