PREVALENCE, RISK FACTOR AND ECONOMIC LOSSES ASSOCIATED WITH BOVINE CYSTICERCOSIS IN SELECTED SLAUGHTER SLABS IN IGABI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Bovine cysticercosis (BC) is a zoonotic infection affecting cattle, posing a significant public health challenge. This study analysed the prevalence, risk factors, and economic losses associated with BC across selected slaughter slabs (Kwata, Karshen Kwalta and Mando Slaughter Slabs) in Igabi LGA, Kaduna, Kaduna State. In this study, 300 cattle were inspected and 118 (37.7%) tested positive for BC, with specific occurrences 49% at Kwata, 43% at Karshen Kwalta, and 21% at Mando slaughter slabs. Statistical analysis revealed no significant association (P > 0.05) between BC and variables such as sex, age, body condition score, breed, or origin of the cattle. The anatomical distribution of C. bovis highlighted the masseter muscle as the most affected site (22.1%), while the heart was the least affected (7.1%). To confirm the identity of the parasitic larvae from inspected cattle carcasses, this study conducted standard microscopic and molecular analysis, revealing the presence of fluid-filled cysts with many having well-defined scolex, and two larvae (out of the three analysed by PCR) yielding a diagnostic band at 253bp. The extent of this economic loss calculated using data from findings about the rejection rate, cattle part/organ cost, and average cattle slaughtered annually, revealing an estimate of ₦92,295,500 annual economic loss resulting from BC infestation and condemnation.