A survey of seasonal patterns in strongyle faecal worm egg counts of working equids of the central midlands and lowlands, Ethiopia |
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Authors: | M Getachew G Feseha A Trawford S W J Reid |
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Institution: | (1) Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Addis Ababa University, Donkey Health and Welfare Project-Donkey Sanctuary, P.O. Box 34, Debre Zeit, Ethiopia;(2) Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth, EX10 0NU Devon, UK;(3) Division of Animal Production and Public Health, Comparative Epidemiology and Informatics, Institute of Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Veterinary School, Bearsden, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK |
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Abstract: | A study was conducted for two consecutive years (1998–1999) to determine the seasonal patterns of strongyle infection in working
donkeys of Ethiopia. For the purpose 2385 donkeys from midland and lowland areas were examined for the presence of parasitic
ova. A hundred percent prevalence of strongyle infection with similar seasonal pattern of strongyle faecal worm egg output
was obtained in all study areas. However, seasonal variations in the number of strongyle faecal worm egg output were observed
in all areas. The highest mean faecal worm egg outputs were recorded during the main rainy season (June to October) in both
years in all areas. Although an increase in the mean strongyle faecal egg output was obtained in the short rainy season (March–April)
followed by a drop in the short dry season (May), there was no statistically significant difference between the short rainy
season and long dry season (Nov–Feb) (P > 0.05). A statistically significant difference however, was obtained between the
main rainy season and short rainy season, and between the main rainy season and dry season (P < 0.05). Based on the results
obtained it is suggested that the most economical and effective control of strongyles can be achieved by strategic deworming
programme during the hot dry pre-main rainy season (May), when the herbage coverage is scarce and helminthologically ‘sterile’,
and the arrested development of the parasites is suppose to be terminating. This could insure the greatest proportion of the
existing worm population to be exposed to anthelmintic and also reduces pasture contamination and further infection in the
subsequent wet season. |
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Keywords: | Donkeys-equids Ethiopia Eggs-output Seasonality Strongyles |
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