The prevalence of infected cattle by Trypanosoma spp. in Handeni district and Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Abstract

Bovine trypanosomiasis is a disease caused by Trypanosoma spp. and transmitted by tsetse flies (Glossina spp.). An infection with trypanosomes in cattle is responsible for peaks of hyperthermia, anaemia, severe loss of meat and milk production, decreased fertility and increasing calf mortality. Because of the high importance of livestock in Tanzania in an economic, social and nutritional view, this disease is a major complication for livestock owners. This study about the prevalence of bovine trypanosomiasis was conducted in Handeni district and Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA). During the months September until November 202 animals in these two areas were tested on the presence of trypanosomes by taking blood samples. The infection rate in Handeni district and NCAA was respectively 4.167% (3 positives in 72 samples) and 1.538% (2 positives in 130 samples). T. vivax was found in the positive blood samples in Handeni district and T. congolense was detected in NCA. Livestock owners in these areas treated 10% to 60% of their cattle with trypanosome chemoprophylaxis. Due to this, the infection rate in non treated animals is expected to be higher than the verified infection rate. Also the packed cell volume (PCV) of the blood samples was measured. There was a significant difference (p=0,030 with α=0,05 ) between the PCV in cattle in these two districts. The cattle from NCA had a significant higher PCV compared to the cattle in Handeni district. This can be caused by the poor amount of water and food available in Handeni district. The aim of this research project was to establish the prevalence of infections with Trypanosoma spp. in cattle in two different areas in Tanzania, Handeni district and Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA). By establishing the prevalence of trypanosomiasis, the importance of prevention techniques in these areas is demonstrated.