Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Bovine Fasciolosis in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia: Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Background: Cattle are among the most important livestock resources in Ethiopia, contributing significantly to the agricultural economy and rural livelihoods. They provide meat, milk, hides, draft power for crop production, and serve as a major source of income for farmers. Despite their vital role, cattle productivity is often constrained by various diseases, particularly parasitic diseases. One of the most significant of these is bovine fasciolosis, a condition caused by ingestion of metacercariae of liver flukes belonging to the genus Fasciola.

Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated risk factors of bovine fasciolosis in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2021 to April 2022. A total of 384 cattle were randomly selected from different locations within the study area. Animals of all age groups and both sexes were included. Fecal samples were collected directly from the rectum of each animal using clean, labeled containers. The samples were examined using standard coprological techniques, specifically the sedimentation method, to detect liver fluke eggs. All findings were recorded, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods.

Results: The overall prevalence of fasciolosis was 49.21% (n=189). Based on origin, Sebatamit had the most incidence at 61.84% (n=47), followed by Kebele 11 at 59.37% (n=57), Tikurit at 50% (n=59), and Latammba at 27.65% (n=26). Statistical analysis revealed significant disparities in occurrence among areas. Cattle in poor condition had the largest prevalence (n=80, 64%), followed by medium condition (n=85, 50%) and fat cattle (n=24, 26.96%). This variation was statistically significant. Age-group analysis revealed comparable prevalence rates, with young cattle at 50.38% (n=65), adults at 47.33% (n=71), and elderly cattle at 50.47% (n=53), with no significant differences found. There were no significant sex-related variations in prevalence, with males exhibiting a prevalence of 49.73% (n=93) and females 48.73% (n=96). Local cattle had a slightly higher prevalence (n=111, 51.62%) than crossbreeds (n=78, 46.15%), although the difference was not statistically significant (P=.29).

Conclusions: These findings underscore the need for targeted, location-specific control strategies and highlight the importance of improved nutritional and health management practices to reduce the burden of fasciolosis in cattle populations.