Prevalence and Risk Factors of Lung Worm Infection in Small Ruminants in Selected Districts of Wolaita Zone, Snnprs, Ethiopia

Abstract

Abstract The lungworm is an important parasitic nematode of small ruminants that infects the lower respiratory tract and is associated with high mortality and morbidity. However, the level of lungworm infection in the study districts is not known. A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2019 to June 2020 in selected Districts of Wolaita Zone with the objectives of determining the prevalence of lungworm infection and associated risk factors. Modified Baermann techniques were used for identification of the lungworms from fecal samples. A total of 742 fecal samples from 443 sheep and 299 goats were collected and examined. Lungworms were detected in 271(36.52%) samples. The parasites infected 192 (43.34%) and 79 (26.42%) of sheep and goats respectively. Lungworm species Dictyocaulus filaria, Protostrongylus rufescens and Muellerius capillaries were identified in 114(15.36%), 68(9.16%) and 57(7.68%) fecal samples respectively. Mixed infection by two or more above species was noted in 32 (4.31%) of the samples. Among the epidemiological factors examined, agro-ecology, management system, and season showed statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) with overall lungworm prevalence in sheep and goats. On the other hand, lungworm infection among sexes, age groups and body condition scores showed no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05). The present study indicated that lungworm infection was a common problem for sheep and goats in the study area. So, measures like de-worming, early treatment and improving animal husbandry should be practiced.