Epidemiological study of strongyle infections in equines in Egypt: prevalence and risk factors

Abstract

Background Equine strongylosis is one of the most prevalent gastrointestinal parasitic diseases affecting horses and donkeys worldwide, leading to reduced health, productivity, and working performance. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal strongyle infection and identify associated risk factors among equines in three Egyptian governorates. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 540 horses and donkeys. Fresh fecal samples were collected and examined using the magnesium sulfate flotation technique for the detection of strongyle eggs. Associations between infection and potential risk factors were evaluated using chi-square analysis, followed by multivariable logistic regression to identify independent predictors of infection. Results The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal strongyle infection was 39% (214/550). Horses showed a slightly higher prevalence (40%) than donkeys (37%). Infection was significantly associated with sex, age, management system, body condition score, and deworming history ( P < 0.05). Multivariable logistic regression identified male sex (OR = 2.8, 95% CI: 1.7–4.4), age <2 years (OR = 3.1, 95% CI: 1.8–5.2), grazing management (OR = 3.4, 95% CI: 1.8–6.6), poor body condition (OR = 2.8, 95% CI: 1.3–5.9), and absence of regular deworming (OR = 4.1, 95% CI: 2.4–7.1) as significant independent risk factors for strongyle infection. Conclusion Gastrointestinal strongyle infection is common among Egyptian equines and is associated with several management- and host-related factors. Improving grazing management, implementing strategic deworming programs, and enhancing owner awareness are likely to reduce infection risk and improve equine health and productivity. Future studies incorporating quantitative fecal egg counts and molecular characterization are recommended to better assess infection intensity and parasite diversity.