Prevalence of fascioliasis and associated economic losses in cattle slaughtered at Gulu City Abattoir

Abstract

Fascioliasis is one the most important helminthic diseases affecting cattle, other ruminants, and humans. It causes large cumulative economic losses to livestock farmers and dealers. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of fascioliasis and estimate its associated economic losses at Gulu city abattoir in Uganda. A total of 345 cattle was sampled during the study period, and animal variables such as sex and breed were recorded at antemortem. Liver and bile ducts were examined by vision, palpation, and incision at post-mortem. Samples diagnosed with fascioliasis and its associated gross lesions were recorded. The amount of liver condemned was weighed and recorded in kilograms. Out of the 345 heads of cattle sampled, 47%(n=162) were infected with fascioliasis. Liver trimmed and condemned tallied up to 117kgs equating to a cumulative loss of 1,762,500 UGX in monetary value over the study period. Animal breed and the manifestation of the condition showed statistical correlation whereas no correlation was observed between the sex of the animal and the manifestation of the condition. The moderately high prevalence of fascioliasis at the abattoir highlights the need to improve the prevention and control procedures of the condition.