Abstract:
A cross sectional study was carried out from October to December 2011 with the objectives of determining the
prevalence of ovine lungworms and assessing the associated potential risk factors in Merhabete district, North Shoa
Administrative Zone, Amhara National Regional State. A total of 384 faecal samples were collected from randomly
selected sheep for the examination of first stage larvae using modified Beermann technique. Of these 52.34% were
found positive for lungworm infection. The lungworm parasites identified were include D. filarial, M. capillaries and
mixed infection with prevalence of 35.42%, 7.55% and 9.37%, respectively. Among the potential risk factors
assessed in the present study clinical signs, body condition and agro-climate were found to have significant
association and play important role in the occurrence of lungworm infection. The prevalence was higher in animals
showing clinical signs (67.77%), having poor body condition (63.89%), and originated from midland (57.95) than
others. However, there was no statistically significant (p>0.05) between the occurrence of ovine lungworm and the
factors sex and age groups. In conclusion, this study indicated that lungworms are important internal parasites in the
study area which impairs the productivity of sheep, implying the need for control intervention.
Description:
In Ethiopia, agriculture is the mainstay of the country and also the
major resource of employment and income. About 85% of the
population live in the rural area and are primarily engaged in
agriculture and related activities. Thus, agriculture directly or
indirectly forms an important component of the livelihood of more
than 60 million people in the country Atesmachew et al.
