PREVALENCE AND ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS OF PORCINE CYSTICERCOSIS INFECTION IN PIGS IN SOME COMMUNITIES OF CHIKUN LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KADUNA STATE

Abstract

Porcine cysticercosis, caused by the larval stage of Taenia solium, is a major zoonotic and economic concern in endemic regions. This study investigated its prevalence and associated risk factors in Chikun Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State, Nigeria. Seventy-five pigs were examined across three communities Maraban Rido, Sabon Tasha, and Ungwan Yelwa using post-mortem tongue inspection. An overall prevalence of 15 % was recorded, with Maraban Rido and Sabon Tasha each reporting 16 %, and Ungwan Yelwa 13.33 %. Female pigs exhibited higher infection rates, with prevalence within the female subgroup ranging from 37.5 % to 50.0 % across communities, compared to males. Adult pigs (> 2 years) had a significantly higher prevalence, ranging from 50.0 % to 55.0 %, than piglets (< 2 years), whose prevalence ranged from 0 % to 40 %. Relative risk analysis indicated a greater likelihood of infection in adult and female pigs, likely due to prolonged exposure to contaminated environments. DNA quantification of blood samples revealed variability in concentration and purity, highlighting the need for improved sample handling. These findings emphasize the importance of targeted control measures such as improved sanitation, confined pig farming, and enhanced diagnostic practices. The study supports a One Health approach to T. solium control in endemic areas.