Trypanosome Prevalence in Cattle in Lere Area in Kaduna State, North Central Nigeria

Abstract

Trypanosome prevalence in cattle was estimated in August 2001 in selected farms in the three districts of Lere local government area of Kaduna State, North Central Nigeria. The study was subsequent to reports of trypanosomosis outbreaks, which had resulted in deaths of cattle that led to yearly migration of seminomadic Fulanis out of the area, especially during the rains. Blood samples collected randomly from 526 cattle were examined for presence of trypanosomes using the buffy coat technique and Giemsa thin blood smears. Overall, 48 animals were found infected: 39 (81%) with Trypanosoma vivax, 7 (15%) with T. congolense and 2 (4%) with T. brucei. The infection rates in young and adult cattle were 6 and 10%, respectively, which was not significant (P > 0.05). From this study, it is clear that trypanosomosis is still a major obstacle to livestock production in Nigeria and that the incidence rate is similar in young and adult animals.