DISTRIBUTION AND RISK FACTORS OF BOVINE FASCIOLOSIS IN UASIN GISHU COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

Fasciolosis is caused by Fasciola parasite and is one of the most neglected zoonotic helminthic diseases of ruminants that occur in the tropics. In Kenya, the disease affects livestock leading to nutritional insecurity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors of bovine fasciolosis in Uasin Gishu County to inform its prevention and control. The sex, breed, age, and source of the bovines in relation to fasciolosis prevalence was determined by examination of liver for adult flukes and bovine stool for Fasciola eggs. In addition, the study assessed the abundance and affection levels of the snails’ intermediate hosts of fasciolosis parasite species in Uasin Gishu County. Data analysis was done by descriptive statistics, one way ANOVA and chi- square using SPSS Statistical program version 29.0. The results showed that female bovine was significantly (P<0.05) more affected (47.4%) compared to male cattle (32.8%). Friesian breed had higher infection rate (51.3%) compared to the other breeds, with the local breed having significantly (p < 0.05) the lowest infection rate (11.5%). Older cattle (over 48 months) had a significantly (p < 0.05), higher infection (42.9%) compared to the younger age groups. More slaughtered cattle were sourced from Ainabkoi and Moiben (26.4% and 21.4% respectively) compared to other regions. The results of the faecal analysis also showed that more female cattle (18.8%) and the animals aged between 25-48 months (14.5%) were more affected. Friesian breed (13.1%) was more affected as per the faecal matter anaalysis among the bovine breeds with the least affected being local breeds (3.8%) which suggests that the local breeds are more resilient to fasciolosis than the exotic breeds. There was no significant difference, (P > 0.05), in snail infectivity and distribution in the six sub counties of Uasin Gishu. Farmers in the region should be advised on the best cattle management practices such as regular deworming and avoiding grazing their cattle in potentially snail infested areas to prevent transmission of the disease