Prevalence and determinants of gastrointestinal infections in sheep within Ilorin Metropolis, Kwara State, Nigeria.

Abstract

Gastrointestinal parasites of ruminants are complex multicellular eukaryotic parasites affecting animals globally, with significant impact on livestock productivity, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aims at determining the prevalence of gastrointestinal infections in sheep within Ilorin metropolis and assess the influence of different predictors on infection rates. The research was conducted in four major markets in Ilorin: Mandate, Ipata, Eyenkorin, and GSS while laboratory analysis was done at the Department of Zoology, Kwara State University. A total of 156 sheep were randomly sampled, with faecal samples collected and analysed using Baermann and floatation techniques to identify helminth larvae and eggs, respectively. Results indicated a high prevalence of gastrointestinal infection, with 140 out of 156 sheep (89.7%) testing positive. The youngest age group (6-12 months) had the highest infection rate (87.6%) compared to older age groups. Infection rates among different age groups did not show significant differences (χ²=2.87, p=0.411). Similarly, sex did not significantly affect infection likelihood, with 90.4% of males and 89.0% of females infected (χ²=0.0736, p=0.786). Breed-specific infections were highest in Balami (93.8%) compared to Yankasa and Uda breeds, though differences among breeds were not statistically significant (χ²=4.28, p=0.118). The widespread of gastrointestinal infections among sheep, irrespective of age, sex, breed is of public health importance. Therefore, enhanced management practices and targeted interventions are recommended to mitigate the impact of gastrointestinal infections on livestock productivity in the region.