The prevalence of helminth infection among cattle in Terengganu, Malaysia

Abstract

A study was conducted to determine the prevalence of helminth infections in cattle located in Terengganu, Malaysia. The samplings were carried out in Kuala Terengganu, Hulu Terengganu, Setiu, Dungun, Kemaman, Besut and Marang. A total of 219 faecal samples and 214 blood samples were collected from the cattle. The faecal samples were subjected to modified McMaster method, faecal culture and sedimentation. The blood samples were centrifuged and the sera were collected for serological test. Results indicated that, out of 219 animals diagnosed 93% was found to be positive for liver fluke, 61% was found to be positive for rumen fluke and 52% were found to be positive for co-infection of liver fluke and rumen fluke [χ2(2, N =120) = 41, p<0.05]. Serological test revealed 82% of liver fluke infection. Faecal egg counts (FEC) for nematodes were ranged from 0 – 800 e.p.g. The mean faecal egg count was 21.5 ± 4.5 e.p.g. The most prevalent nematodes reported were Haemonchus (80%), Trichostrongylus (16%) and Oesophagostomum (4%), [χ2(2, N =100) = 104, p < 0.05].