Trypanosomiasis in a migrating herd of cattle in Kaduna State Nigeria

The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence and impact of Trypanosomiasis on a herd of migrating/pastoral cattle. A herd of 50 white Fulani cattle migrating from a suburban area of Abuja to Afaka in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Northern Nigeria, were examined and screened for Trypanosomiasis on request. The animals showed clinical symptoms of lacrimation, emaciation, depression, lethargy and enlarged superficial lymphnodes which were reportedly not present before the trek. 40 of the animals were screened by parasitological means (hematocrit, buffy coat methods and thin and thick blood smears). 15 out of the 40 animals sampled were positive for trypanosomes (37.5% prevalence). Trypanosoma congolense was the only Trypanosoma species identified. Trypanosomiasis was observed in the herd examined and laboratory examination corroborated the observed clinical signs. The results, as well as the role of migration and transhumance pastoralism in disease occurrence are discussed.Keywords: Trypanosomiasis, trypanosomes, cattle, Fulani, migration, Nigeri

Small Ruminant Trypanosomiasis in Rigasa, Suburban Kaduna, Northwest, Nigeria

Tsetse-transmitted Trypanosomiasis is still regarded as one of the most severe medical and veterinary problems in Africa. The potential of domestic animals serving as reservoirs for Trypanosomiasis infections in humans and animals (in South, East and West Africa) has been widely discussed. Small ruminant production is a very important aspect of livestock production in sub Saharan Africa. Small ruminants are estimated to provide up to 30% of meat and 15% of milk production in sub Saharan Africa. Prevalence rates in Northern Nigeria are varied from 1.0% to 35.20%. Small ruminants may also serve as reservoirs of infection to cattle. This is very significant as small ruminants have been shown to be relatively trypanotolerant and most owners do not routinely treat them for Trypanosomiasis; thereby further enhancing their capacity as carriers. This study was carried out to investigate the prevalence of Trypanosomiasis in herds of goats reared alongside cattle that were kept by extensive management within Kaduna metropolis. Trypanosomiasis was found to be prevalent in the area. The role of small ruminants as carriers and possible reservoir hosts for Trypanosomiasis in cattle is also discussed