Prevalence and egg intensity of Fasciola spp. in cattle slaughtered at Sokoto Abattoir, North-Western Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the prevalence and egg intensity of Fasciola species in slaughtered cattle at the Sokoto Modern Abattoir, Northwestern Nigeria, using the formol-ether concentration technique on faecal and bile samples. A total of 170 cattle were examined. The prevalence of Fasciola infection was 18.8% in faecal samples and 24.1% in bile samples. Infection was significantly associated with age (p < 0.05), with adult cattle showing higher prevalence. Mean egg counts per gram (EPG) were higher in bile (88.6 ± 245.9) than in faeces (36.9 ± 107.9). Although adult cattle showed higher odds of infection than younger animals, binary logistic regression indicated that none of the assessed host factors were significantly associated with Fasciola spp. Infection in either faecal or bile samples. Most infections were of low intensity (31.7% in faeces, 38.8% in bile). The study highlights the endemicity of fasciolosis in the region and demonstrates that coprological examination remains a reliable, simple, and cost-effective diagnostic approach. Improved meat inspection and public health awareness are recommended to minimize transmission risks.