Study on Prevalence of Gastro Intestinal Helminths of Large and Small Ruminants in District Haripur

Abstract

A wide variety of gastro-intestinal (GI) helminthes have been associated with morbidity and mortality in large and small ruminants. Substantial parasitic load in these animals is characterized by symptoms like diarrhea, poor weight gain, rough body coat, gastro intestinal disturbance like lack of appetite, reduced milk production, alopecia and bottle jaw. The study on prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths parasite of large and small ruminants was conducted in and around district Haripur. Faecal samples (n=633) were randomly collected and were examined for the presence of helminths parasites, in which 463 (73.0%) were found positive for the eggs of different GIT helminths. Seven species of parasites including: Eimeria Spp, Ascaris spp., Strongyloid spp., Fasciola spp. Trichuris spp. Monezia spp. and Schistoma bovis. as well as mixed species were identified as per their intensity. It was noted that prevalence was highest in goat (80%) followed by buffalo (74%), cattle (71.27%) and sheep (68.08%). The Eimeria spp. was highest (35.27%) followed Buffallo (28.35%) and trichuris spp. 16.41%. Similarly, Ascaris spp. was higher in buffallo (56.71%) followed by cattle (12.1%). Eimeria spp. was highest in Goats (26.41%) followed by sheep (18.75%). The ascaris spp. was higher in goats (13.2 %) followed by sheep (5%), While, Fasciola spp. was higher (15.60%) in sheep than goats (4.70%). Therefore, it is recommended that proper managemental practices, strategic anthelmintic protocols as per regular faecal examination and awareness of farmers regarding husbandry practices may be implemented in the study area to boost the economy of the farmers.