Prevalence and public health importance of bovine cysticercosis in and around Dessie, Amhara region, North East Ethiopia

Abstract

A cross sectional study was conducted between November 2018 to April 2019 to estimate the prevalence and public health importance of bovine cysticercosis in and around Dessie town, Amhara region, North East Ethiopia. Data were collected from active abattoir and through questionnaire survey. Out of 384 carcasses examined, 37 (9.6%) were found to be infected with Cysticercus bovis. Cyst prevalence per organs was 5.5% (21) in liver, 2.1% (8) tongue, 1.0% (4) masseter muscle, 1.0% (4) heart and 0.5% (2) brachial muscle. Bovine cysticercosis was found to be 16 (14.2%) in medium, 10 (11.8%) good and 11 (5.9%) poor body condition cattle. Of the total 144 C. bovis cysts detected, 68 (47.22%) were found to be alive. Of the total 80 interviewed respondents, 18 (22.5%) had contracted Taenia saginata infection. The prevalence was 35.7% in males and 15.4% in females, 42.9% in government employees. Human taeniasis prevalence showed significant (p<0.05) differences with age groups, sexes and occupation but no significant (p>0.05) difference was recorded between marital status, religion, education level, latrine availability and meat consumption habit of respondents. The study revealed the presence of bovine cysticercosis and its public health hazards need increased awareness of the health impact of taeniasis to safeguard the community.

Keywords: Bovine; Cysticercosis; Dessie; Taenia saginata; Prevalence; Public health