“Epidemiological Study of Cryptosporidiosis in Livestock and their Associated Nomadic Rearers”
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Date
2021-12-03
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Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology, Jammu (J&K)
Abstract
The study was conducted to determine the prevalence of cryptosporidiosis in livestock and their associated nomadic rearers in and around Jammu region. A total of 1040 faecal/stool samples (320 cattle, 320 buffalo, 140 sheep, 140 goats and 120 nomads) were analysed using modified Ziehl-Neelson acid fast staining technique with 120 samples being positive for Cryptosporidium species. The samples were subjected to rapid diagnostic test for Cryptosporidium species to confirm the positive samples. The modified Ziehl-Neelson acid fast staining technique revealed an overall prevalence of 11.54%, where prevalence in Cattle was 11.25% (36), buffalo 14.68% (47), Sheep 8.57% (12), Goat 10.71% (15) and nomads 8.33% (10). In cattle calves, siginificantly high prevalence was observed in diarrheic males (27.08%) (p<0.05) in the age group of <1 month (29.85%) (p<0.05) and in monsoon season 14.46 percent (p<0.05). In buffalo, highest prevalence was observed in diarrheic males 29.31 percent (p<0.05) in the age group of <1 month (32.83%) and in monsoon season (19.37%) (p<0.05). In sheep, highest prevalence was observed in diarrheic females (33.33%) (p<0.05) in the age group of <1 month (15.21%) and in monsoon season 14.28 percent (p<0.05). In goat, highest prevalence was observed in diarrheic females (38.09%) (p<0.05) in the age group of <1 month (21.73%) and in monsoon season (13.75%) (p<0.05). In nomads, prevalence was higher in diarrheic males (16%) (p<0.05) in the age group of below 10 years (14.54%) (p<0.05) in monsoon season (13.15%) (p<0.05). High risk of infection was observed in non-dewormed livestock (13.25%) (p<0.05) and in livestock that drink stream water (13.33%). Cryptosporidiosis was significant in nomads who were using stream water for washing hands, ablution and recreational activities and utensils (15%) (p<0.05) followed unhygienic practices like not washing hands after defecation (13.33%) (p<0.05) or not having toilets at home (13.33%) (p<0.05). Prevalence was higher in children who eat raw vegetables/fruits (12.85%) (p<0.05). This study conclude that Cryptosporidium spp. is very much prevalent in Jammu region of J&K and so awareness in general public and professionals who are dealing with animals and human health is necessary.