Study of Ruminant Fasciolosis in Selected Districts in Upper Awash River Basin, South Western Shoa, Ethiopia

Abstract

A cross-sectional study was conducted in February 2013 to determine the prevalence of fasciolosis in cattle and sheep in areas adjacent to the upper Awash River basin, South Western Shoa, Ethiopia. A total of 399 (308 bovine and 91 ovine) faecal samples were collected from Illu and Sebeta Hawas districts and microscopically examined using sedimentation techniques. Eggs of Fasciola species were identified based on their characteristic morphology and colour. Besides, a gross pathological examination was conducted on a total of 237 livers of slaughtered animals at Sebeta municipal abattoir to identify Fasciola species and assess the extent of infection. Coprological examinations revealed that, significantly higher prevalence (48.4%) in sheep than in cattle (36.7%). Similarly, a prevalence rate recorded in Illu district (45.6%) was significantly higher than that of Sebeta Hawas district (34.7%). Out of a total of 237 livers examined, 38.4% (91) were infected by one or more Fasciola species. The majority (54.9%) of the infection was caused by F. hepatica followed by F. gigantica (28.6%) and mixed species (16.5%). This study showed that, fasciolosis is exerting a significant impact on livestock production and productivity in the study areas. Therefore, proper control scheme should be designed and implemented in areas adjacent to the upper Awash River basin to minimize the burden of fasciolosis.