Vol. 1, Issue 6, Part A (2016)

Author(s): Jiregna Gari Negasa

Abstract: A cross sectional study was conducted from November 2017 to April 2018 in selected villages surrounding Nekemte town, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia to determine prevalence of bovine trypanosomiasis, to assess its host risk factors and also identify species of trypanosomes affecting cattle in the study area. A total of 384 indigenous and cross breed cattle were randomly selected for blood sample collection and examined for the parasitological survey by buffy coat examination and hematological study by use of PCV. Out of total sampled cattle, 23 animal infected with trypanosome with an overall prevalence of 6% (23/384). The trypanosome species identified were T. congolense which account 47.82% of total infection followed T. vivax 34.78% and mixed infection of both species 17.4%. This study showed statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) was observed in trypanosomosis infection among sexes, body condition, age, anemic status of animal and among selected villages of study area. The Overall mean PCV of sampled animal was 26.22+ 3.16SD. The mean PCV values of affected (parasitemic) and non-infected (aparasitaemic) animals were 20+2.30SD and 26+2.88SD respectively. This study confirmed that bovine trypanosomosis is among the most important health constraints causing loss of cattle production in selected villages surrounding Nekemte town. Therefore implementing strategic vector control and intervention with chemotherapeutics and prophylactics should be applied to reduce effect of bovine trypanosomosis on livestock production.