Ovine coccidiosis: prevalence and associated risk factors in and around Addis-Zemen, Northwest Ethiopia

Authors: ABINET LAKEW, ZEWDU SEYOUM

Abstract: This cross-sectional study was conducted in and around Addis-Zemen from November 2014 to April 2015 to determine the prevalence of ovine coccidiosis and to identify associated risk factors. Faecal samples were collected directly from the rectum of 384 randomly selected animals. A centrifugal faecal flotation technique using saturated salt solution was used to detect Eimeria oocysts. Out of 384 samples, only 88 were found to contain Eimeria oocysts. Eimeria infection was recorded in all age and sex groups of the study animals. A strong significant association was observed (P < 0.05) between Eimeria infection and the faecal consistency, production system, hygienic status, age, and body condition of the sampled animals. However, an insignificant (P > 0.05) association was recorded between Eimeria infection and the origins and sex of the animals. Eimeria infection is likely to become a more important problem in small ruminants and will have great significance for producers in the future, as the increasing scarcity of land for grazing is forcing people to adopt more intensive management systems. Therefore, planning an effective control and prevention programme is essential if the well-being and productivity of sheep are to be maintained.

Keywords: Addis-Zemen, faecal flotation, coccidiosis, oocyst, prevalence, sheep

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