Cross-sectional study on bovine fasciolosis: prevalence, coprological, abattoir survey and financial loss due to liver condemnation at Areka Municipal Abattoir, Southern Ethiopia

A cross-sectional study was carried out from November 2013 to April 2014 on bovine fasciolosis at Areka municipal abattoir to estimate the prevalence of bovine fasciolosis, associated risk factors, evaluate the sensitivity of coprological test and estimate direct annual financial loss due to liver condemnation. From 400 sampled cattle’s during the study period, 67 (16.75%) of their fecal samples and 120 (30%) of their livers were positive during antemortem and postmortem inspection, respectively. The prevalence of bovine fasciolosis was higher in older (>10 years [36.5%]) than younger ones (<5 years [20.8%]). The prevalence of bovine fasciolosis in study sites was significantly associated with age and body condition of cattle (P<0.05). From species comparison, Fasciola hepatica (14.75%) was found to be the predominant species causing bovine fasciolosis. The direct financial analysis due to liver condemnation was made based on retail price/value of bovine liver and estimated to be 47,124 ETB (2,406.74 USD). In general, fasciolosis is more prevalent in the study area and cause loss in economic impact from liver condemnation. The fact of parasitic existence and associated economic loss warrant the need of control and prevention systems to be designed and implemented at the study site. Key words: Areka municipal abattoir, bovine fasciolosis, coprology, liver condemnation, postmortem examination.