Prevalence, distribution, and associated risk factors of major equine endoparasitic infections in South Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia.

Overview

• This study examined the prevalence, types, intensity, and risk factors of internal parasite infections in horses and donkeys in the South Gondar Zone of Northwest Ethiopia.
• The researchers identified key risk factors influencing infection rates and provided data to support targeted parasite control efforts in the region.

Study Purpose and Background

• Internal parasites (endoparasites) significantly affect the health and productivity of equines in Ethiopia, but there was a lack of detailed epidemiological data specifically from northwestern regions.
• The study aimed to fill this gap by investigating how common these parasites are, what types infect equines, the intensity of infections, and the factors associated with parasite presence.

Methods

• A cross-sectional study was conducted, combining fecal (coprological) examinations and postmortem inspections to detect parasite presence and diversity.
• Standard parasitology techniques were used to identify and quantify parasites.
• Data analysis utilized SPSS version 27, including multivariable logistic regression to identify predictors of infection.
• A total of 720 equines (horses and donkeys) were examined.

Key Findings: Prevalence and Parasite Types

• Overall, 57.1% (411 out of 720) of equines were infected with at least one type of endoparasite.
• The most common parasites were Strongyle species (23.5%) and a second unnamed parasite species (10.1%).
• Postmortem examinations revealed multiple parasite types including gastrointestinal and respiratory nematodes (roundworms), cestodes (tapeworms), trematodes (flukes), and botfly larvae.
• Most infections were classified as low to moderate intensity, indicating a range but generally not extremely heavy parasite burdens.

Risk Factors Associated with Infection

• Species: Donkeys had a significantly lower risk of infection compared to horses (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.18), indicating horses are more susceptible.
• Age: Younger equines were nearly three times more likely to be infected than older animals (AOR = 2.80), highlighting increased vulnerability of younger horses and donkeys.
• Body Condition Score: Animals in poor condition were over nine times more likely to be infected than those in good condition, and those in medium condition were nearly four times more likely. This suggests infection contributes to or is associated with poor health.
• Season: Infection risk was higher during the wet season compared to the dry season (AOR = 2.72), consistent with environmental conditions favoring parasite transmission.
• Sex showed no significant association with infection status.

Implications and Conclusion

• Endoparasitic infections are widespread in equines in the South Gondar Zone, posing a substantial health challenge.
• The study identified specific vulnerable groups—young animals, animals in poor body condition, and equines during the wet season—who should be prioritized in control programs.
• Findings provide important baseline epidemiological data to design effective, targeted parasite management strategies in northwestern Ethiopia.
• Targeted interventions to reduce parasite impact could enhance equine health and improve their productivity and welfare in this region.