Influence of epidemiological factors on the prevalence and intensity of infestation by Hypoderma spp. (Diptera: Oestidae) in cattle of Potowar Region, Pakistan.

In the present study an epidemiological survey was conducted to determine the influence of epidemiological factors on prevalence and infestation rate of Hypoderma spp. in cattle of Potowar Region, Pakistan. A total of 1000 animals were examined on monthly basis by palpation method from the study area. The effect of age, sex, breed, management, previous exposure on hypodermosis was investigated. The mean number of nodules in the infested animals ranged from 1-35 (12.1±10.23). Higher prevalence was detected in young and female animals. The animals of local breeds, extensive grazing system and primoinfested showed higher infestation rate. Warbles were detected from September to January with a peak in December. The CHAID algorithm showed that grazing pattern as the most influencing factor for warble fly prevalence, followed by the district locality. Only previous exposure to the parasite had a significant influence on the intensity of parasitation. The management system is another contributing factor influencing the prevalence of hypodermosis. Despite the prevalence found in this study is moderate, the intensity of infestation is noticeable taking into consideration that Pakistan is a major exporter of skin, leather and their products warbles thus results in serious economic losses of the country.