Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of pigs in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, South-Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

Gastrointestinal parasites are responsible for substantial loss of productivity in swine and other livestock industries, they constitute a major impediment to efficient and profitable livestock production. The objective of the study is to determine the prevalence and evaluate the risks factors associated with gastrointestinal parasites among pigs in the study area. Methodologically, faecal samples were macroscopically examined for the presence of blood and adult parasites. Direct smear method, floatation technique and sedimentation by centrifugation were employed to detect the presence of eggs of parasites. Results identified eight intestinal parasites from a total of 300 fecal samples in pigs from different farms in Abakaliki metropolis, with an overall prevalence of 99.7%. Ascaris suum had the highest prevalence of 30.6%, followed by Metastrongylus spp. 17.5%, Cryptosporidium spp. 17.1%, Trichuris suis 10.6%, Eimeria spp. 10.2%, Oesophagostomum spp. 6.12%, Isospora suis 4.0% and Paragonimus westermanii 3.6%. In the present study, it can be deduced that gastrointestinal parasitism can occur in any farm irrespective of the type of housing, and management practices. Therefore, improved husbandry system and modern management practices should be embraced to enhance preventive measures against helminthosis.