Research Article
Shimels Tikuye
Abstract
A cross sectional study was conducted to determine prevalence and risk factors associated with ruminant fasciolosis in Kombolcha, Amhara regional state from October 2010 to March 2011. For the purpose of the study fecal samples were taken from a total of 420 ruminants (168 cattle, 149 sheep and 103 goats) and subjected to coprological examination, specifically sedimentation technique. Based on the coproscopic examination the prevalence of fasciolosis was found to be 9.52% (n=16) in cattle, 37.58% (n=56) in sheep and 6.8% (n=7) in goats. Among the ruminants the prevalence of fasciolosis showed statistically significant variations (χ2=53.6095, P=0.000), being very high in sheep and low in goats and poor body condition 45 (60%). This study revealed the presence of statistical significant differences (χ2=103.08, P=0.000) between the three body conditions, the prevalence recorded in poor condition animals was very high. On the contrary there was no significance difference (P>0.05) in sex and age groups. In conclusion fasciolosis was found to be important ruminant disease in the study area, thus to control the disease and reduce the economic loss in this area, appropriate control strategies should be given.