Abstract

The study was conducted to determine the prevalence, associated risk factors and identification of the species of lungworms of small ruminants in four districts of Northwestern Amhara National Regional State. A total of 632 small ruminants were included in the study using coprologic procedures (565 animals) and post-mortem examination (87 animals). The study showed that the overall prevalence of lungworm infection was 46.0 and 56.3% based on coprological and postmortem examination, respectively. Significant difference (P < 0.05) in prevalence of lungworm was found between animals under semi-intensive and extensive management systems. The prevalence of lungworm infection was significantly different (P < 0.05) between seasons, the highest being during the rainy season (57.1%) and the lowest in the dry season months (35.0%). The prevalence of Muelleris capillaris infection was highest (50.4%) during the study period based on postmortem examination. The prevalence of lungworm infection showed significant association (P < 0.05) with different age groups of animals, where Dictiocaulus fillaria was highly prevalent in young age group while M. capillaris and Protstrongylus rufescens were highly prevalent in adult age groups of study animals. In the current study, three respiratory helminthes of small ruminants were identified and management system, age and season are important risk factors associated with lungworm infection in the study area. Due to its impact on production, emphasis should be given for the prevention and control of lungworm infection in the study area.

Key words: Dictiocaulus fillaria, Muelleris capillaries, Protostrongylus rufescens, lungworm, small ruminant, helminthes.