Prevalence of parafilaria lesions in slaughter cattle in Zimbabwe
Chambers, P.G.
Veterinary Record 129(19): 431-432
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0042-4900 PMID: 1776226 Document Number: 378515
Abattoir records were studied to determine the prevalence and distribution of P. bovicola in Zimbabwe and to investigate its frequency of occurrence in animals of different sexes. During the period of May 1982 to November 1983 lesions were seen only in animals originating from the south west and west of the country (the Lowveld and Matabeleland, respectively). The Lowveld and Matabeleland are the catchment areas for animals slaughtered at Masvingo and Bulawayo. A total of 261 819 cattle were slaughtered at these abattoirs during the 19 month surveillance period. Of these animals, 83% were owned by commercial farmers and 17% were of communal (or rural) ownership. Commercial animals were generally younger (between milk teeth and full mouth) and were mostly veld raised (ranched); communal cattle were older, free-range animals. Overall prevalence of P. bovicola lesions was 4.4%; the prevalence in animals of communal origin was significantly higher (9.8%) than that in animals of commercial origin (3.3%). Bulls were significantly more affected (17.36%) than oxen (4.46%) and cows (3.19%). Respective prevalence rates for bulls, oxen and cows in the commercial farms were 10.04%, 3.73% and 2.4%, and in communal farms were 25.52%, 7.84% and 8.66%. Thus, there was a higher infection rate in communal animals. It is suggested that the differences in management practices may affect fly behaviour, causing different rates of infection.