Factors influencing the prevalence of bovine babesiosis in Northern and Eastern Zimbabwe

Abstract

questionnaire survey was conducted to determine factors influencing the occurrence of bovine babesiosis at communal dip tanks in northern and eastern Zimbabwe. A dipping frequency of 21-42 immersions per year was generally followed. Frequent disruptions to the prescribed dipping programme were however reported at 72% of the dip tanks. These were mainly due to shortages of water and acaricides. Dipping of cattle was started at less than 3 months old at 80% of the dip tanks surveyed. Factors that limited efficient supervision of dipping by Veterinary Extension Assistants (VEAs) were transport, distances travelled to the dip tanks and number of dip tanks serviced by each VEA. In the absence of motorbikes, horse transport was suggested as an alternative and efficient mode of transport that should be considered by the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS). Constraints associated with control of tick-borne disease (TBDs) by dipping are reported and alternative control measures to complement the dipping programme are discussed.