Farmers’ knowledge, attitude and practices on camplobacteriosis and trichomoniasis infections in breeding bulls from selected farms in Wakiso District.

Abstract

Bovine genital campylobacteriosis (BGC) and bovine trichomoniasis (BT), caused by Campylobacter fetus and Tritrichomonas fetus, respectively, are significant venereal diseases affecting cattle reproductive health, leading to infertility, abortions, and economic losses in livestock production. In Wakiso District, Uganda, limited data exist on the prevalence of these diseases and farmers’ awareness, hindering effective control measures. This study investigated the infection status of BGC and BT in breeding bulls and assessed farmers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding these reproductive diseases. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Wakiso District, targeting breeding bulls on eight selected farms in Entebbe municipality, Kajjansi Town Council, Gayaza, Gombe, Mende, Katabi, sub-counties. Preputial wash samples from 30 bulls were collected and analysed for C. fetus using culture and biochemical testing, While T. fetus was detected using dark-field microscopy. Structured KAP questionnaire was administered to 27 bull owners. Data was analysed using SPSS version 26.0, with descriptive statistics summarizing infection status and KAP responses. The prevalence of BGC was 2.17%, and T. fetus was not detected in the sampled bulls. Farmers’ awareness of BGC and BT was low, with 93% (n=25/27) unaware of these diseases. Of the sampled farms, 51.9% operated semi-intensively, with limited biosecurity (41% rated bad) and limited vaccination adoption (44.4% did not vaccinate), abortions (34.6%), repeat breeding (embryonic deaths) (42.3%), open pyometra (26.9%), retained placentas (30.8%) suggesting potential campylobacteriosis disease impact at farm level. The low prevalence of BGC and BT in breeding bulls suggest these diseases are not currently wide spread in Wakiso district, but the single BGC case highlights a risk in extensive grazing systems. The significant lack of farmer awareness and venereal diseases’ vaccination underscore the need for targeted education and improved management strategies to prevent potential outbreaks and mitigate economic losses in Uganda’s cattle industry.