Surveillance of Taeniid cysts in Small Ruminants Slaughtered at Makurdi Abattoir and Slaughter Slabs: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

The surveillance of taeniid cysts in sheep and goats slaughtered for food in Makurdi abattoir and slaughter slabs is described. A total of 1,501 goats and 440 sheep were slaughtered in the three months period from November 2010 to January, 2011, out of which 164 goats and 3 sheep had Taeniid cysts respectively. Taenia hydatigenea was identified in 161 cysts from goats, Taenia multiceps from 2 cysts and Echinococcus granulosus from one cyst. Thirty-two cysts were calcified and could not be identified. The high number of cysts recovered from the animals within the short span of three months indicates the endemicity of taeniasis and calls for further studies of the disease. Prevention and control of taeniid cysts in endemic areas are discussed from the public health point of view.

Keywords: Surveillance, Taeniid cysts, Slaughtered Small ruminants, Makurdi Abattoir, Benue State

Nigerian Journal of Parasitology, Vol. 33 [2] September 2012, pp. 145-148