Abstract |
A study was done to determine the prevalence of bovine fasciolosis and its associated financial losses in the cattle slaughtered at Lyantonde Town Abattoir by examining the bovine livers. Out of the 260 livers examined, 35.8% were infested. Of the livers infested 29%, 30% and 41% were severely, moderately and mildly infested respectively. Of the infested livers 25% were totally condemned while 75% were partially condemned. There was a highly significant (X2= 9.75; P=0.0018) prevalence of fasciolosis in females (50%, n=52) than males (30.7%, n=48). There was a highly significant (X2= 4.7; P=0.031) more prevalence of fasciolosis in adults (44.8%; n=60) than sub-adults. Steers had less prevalence of fasciolosis than any other age group (P<0.01). There was higher prevalence (X2 = 23; P=,0.001) and greater severity (X2=9.6 P=0.0024) of fasciolosis in exotic than local cattle breeds. There was greater severity of fasciolosis in cows than any other age-sex group. During the 44 days study period, 103kg of liver were condemned which were equivalent to 330 US Dollars lost during the study period that was extrapolated to USD 2703 annually. The study recommended that farmers should adopt proper methods of controlling fasciolosis which include regular de-worming of cattle with correct doses and regime; and use of molluscides to kill snails in the breeding places where cattle graze. |