Prevalence of Trypanosomosis in Small Ruminants at Slaughter in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

The prevalence of Trypanosoma infection in indigenous breeds of small ruminants at slaughter in Jos was studied from 680 blood samples collected from 300 sheep and 380 goats from December 1999 to May 2000. 8(2.67%) sheep and 4(1.05%) goats were positive for trypanosoma infection. Trypanosoma vivax and T. congolense were respectively responsible for 75% and 25% of the infection in each animal specie. It is, therefore suggested that the epidemiology of trypanosomosis in small ruminants be taken
more seriously and the animals be subjected to strict veterinary supervision.

Key words: Trypanosomosis, sheep, goat, abattoir, Jos, Nigeria