Infection dynamics of Cystoisospora suis (Isospora suis) on a pilot swine farm in Carabobo State, Venezuela

Abstract

A research was done of the infection dynamics of the protozoan parasite Cystoisospora suis in lactating piglets at an intensive swine pilot farm in Venezuela. Over a 12-mo period (September 2015 to August 2016), 480 fecal samples were collected directly from the rectum in piglets in four age groups: 1-7 d (20 %); 8-14 d (47 %); 15-21 d (23 %); and 22-28 d (10 %). Stool samples were cultured in a 2.5% potassium dichromate solution and later processed by centrifugation-flotation. Cystoisospora suis was present throughout the study period with a 52.08 % overall average prevalence; values were highest in the second week of life. Meteorological variables (temperature, relative humidity and precipitation) had no effect (P>0.05) on variations in C. suis prevalence. Data from an epidemiological questionnaire were analyzed with a Spearman correlation test, identifying an association (P<0.05) between prevalence and the variables of on-site veterinarian, an intense disinfection protocol and use of 5% Baycox. Regional meteorological conditions are optimal for C. suis sporulation and year round maintenance of oocysts. This coupled with inconsistent control and hygiene protocols at the studied farm favored parasite survival and proliferation.