Prevalence of Bovine Schistosomiasis and Associated Risk Factors in and Around Haramaya, Oromia Region, East Ethiopia

Abstract

Introduction

Schistosomiasis is caused by the Schistosoma genus and is transmitted through intermediate hosts, such as snails.

Methods

A cross-sectional investigation was conducted within and surrounding Haramaya town between December 2022 and May 2023 to estimate the prevalence of schistosomiasis in cattle and associated risk factors. The degree of prevalence was estimated using surveys carried out in slaughterhouses and coprological laboratories. For statistical estimation, chi-square tests and logistic regression were utilized. A total of 390 samples were obtained through simple random sampling. In the survey that was undertaken on abattoirs, a total of 384 samples were chosen through the utilization of a systematic random sampling approach. The recovery of Schistosoma eggs from fecal specimens was achieved by sedimentation.

Results

The overall rates of schistosomiasis in cattle were estimated to be 21.28% and 18.23% through coprological and postmortem examinations, respectively. The analysis conducted through multivariable logistic regression indicated that management system, body condition, and age were significant risk factors. Cattle under extensive management (OR = 5.9, 95% CI = 2–17) and those in the young age category (OR = 2.7, 95% CI = 1.0–7.00) were more susceptible to acquiring schistosomiasis than cattle under intensive management and those in the adult age category, respectively. According to the odds ratio, there was a positive association between the incidence rate of schistosomiasis in cattle and poor body condition (OR: 3.048, 95% CI = 1.07–8.68; P = 0.00). Schistosomiasis infection was 3.048 times more likely to manifest in animals in poor physical condition. This affliction has had a profound impact on the livestock industry, as substantiated by the elevated prevalence of schistosomiasis in cattle within the studied region.

Conclusion

Consequently, an integrated approach to prevention and control that targets the parasite is needed.

Keywords:

• schistosomiasis
• cattle
• Haramaya
• prevalence
• risk factors

Data Sharing Statement

The datasets generated during and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

Ethical Approval and Consent to Participate

This research involved the use of ethical statements. Ethics approval was obtained from Haramaya University in accordance with the principles established by the institution. This study was granted ethical approval by Haramaya University’s Institutional Ethics Research Review Committee, College of Veterinary Medicine (Ref. No: IHRER/234, 13 September 2022). The manual bears the title “The guide is entitled” Guidelines for Ethics in animal-related research and Teaching involving animals. Animals were approached with great care according to the guidelines for the ethics of animal research. In addition, we obtained verbal informed consent from the animal owners, which was approved by the ethics committee before sample collection.

Acknowledgments

The expression of our gratitude is extended to the University of Haramaya for granting the authorization letter essential for the collection of data. Appreciation was also conveyed to the individuals who possess the animals and the staff members of the abattoir.

Author Contributions

All authors made a significant contribution to the work reported, whether that is in the conception, study design, execution, acquisition of data, analysis, and interpretation, or all these areas; took part in drafting, revising, or critically reviewing the article; gave final approval of the version to be published; have agreed on the journal to which the article has been submitted; and agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work.

Disclosure

The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.

Additional information

Funding

There is no funding to report.