Nematode infections are a serious constraint to
pig production, especially where free range pig keeping is
practiced. This study investigated the epidemiology of
nematodes in free range pigs in Busia District, Kenya.
Three hundred and six pigs from 135 farms were sampled
for faeces that were analysed for nematode eggs per gram
(EPG) of faeces using the McMaster technique. The
nematode eggs were also identified to genus and species
based on morphology. A questionnaire on risk factors was
also administered to the pig owners. The overall prevalence
and mean nematode EPG were 84.2% and 2,355, respectively.
The nematode eggs were identified as those
belonging to Oesophagostomum spp. (75%), Strongyloides
ransomi (37%), Ascaris suum (18%), Metastrongylus spp.
(11%), Trichuris suis (7%) and Physocephalus sexalatus
(3%). The prevalence of nematodes was positively correlated
(p<0.05) with the amount of rainfall in the division of
the pigs' origin (all nematodes except S. ransomi). The
prevalence of nematodes was also associated with the age
of the pigs. A lower burden of nematodes was associated
(p<0.05) with a history of deworming (A. suum) and the
provision of night housing (S. ransomi and Metastrongylus
spp.). In conclusion, this study has provided information on
nematode infections and the associated risk factors for free
range pigs in Busia District, which can be used when
implementing integrated control measures.