Research Article
Yosef Tefera and Solomon Me
Abstract
Cross-sectional study was conducted from October, 2013 to April, 2014 with the aim of estimating the prevalence of ovine lungworm infection, to assess associated risk factors and identify lungworm species in Debre Birhan town. A total of 371 fecal samples and relevant data were collected. L1 larvae identified using modified Baerman technique and association was analyzed against different risk factors. The overall prevalence recorded was 209(56.3%). The proportion of infection by Dictyocaulus filaria, Muellerius capillaris and mixed infection were 78.5%, 16.3% and 5.3%, respectively. Protostrongylus rufescens was not recovered. Animals in medium and good body condition (OR= 44.6, 95% CI (8.1, 284.2); OR=282.9, 95% CI (44.9-1779.4)) and de-wormed groups of animals (OR=25.6 95% CI (8.2, 78.6)) had higher odds ratio as protective factors. Though there was minor prevalence difference among age groups and sex, the difference was insignificant (p>0.05). However, Menze breed and exotic cross breed had significant difference in univariable (P<0.05) but insignificant (P>0.05) in multivariable logistic regression analysis. Therefore, breed considered as confounding factor. The study revealed that lungworm is very important and high prevalence of verminous pneumonia was due to two lung worm species. Regular and strategic de-worming has significant impact in controlling parasite infection. The situation dictates’ that prompt action has to be implemented by organizing stakeholder in the area particular and in the country in general.