Low pasture productivity and poor forage quality remain major constraints to smallholder dairy production in Tanzania, particularly during the dry season, when feed shortages reduce milk yield and animal performance. Although farmer training is widely promoted to improve pasture management, empirical evidence linking training to measurable improvements in pasture productivity and forage quality under field conditions remains limited. This study evaluated the effects of structured pasture management training on pasture productivity and forage nutritive value among smallholder dairy farmers in Muheza District, Tanzania. A comparative cross-sectional design was employed, using eighteen representative pasture plots selected from trained (n=9) and untrained (n=9) farmers. Forage samples were collected during the dry and wet seasons and analysed for biomass yield, dry matter, crude protein, crude fibre, ether extract, ash, neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre, and total digestible nutrients using proximate analysis and ANKOM technology. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, independent sample t-tests, and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA). The results showed that trained farmers produced significantly higher forage biomass (7.28 vs 6.32 t DM ha -1 ; p < 0.001) and recorded significantly greater crude protein, total digestible nutrients, ether extract, and ash contents than untrained farmers. Training, season, and farm size were identified as significant factors influencing pasture productivity and forage nutritive value, whereas sex had no significant effect. The findings demonstrate that structured farmer training promotes the adoption of improved pasture management practices, resulting in higher forage yield and enhanced nutritional quality. The study concludes that strengthening pasture-focused training and extension programmes can substantially improve feed availability, livestock productivity, and the sustainability of smallholder dairy production systems in Tanzania and similar tropical environments.
Listeria monocytogenes is an infectious foodborne pathogen causing the disease listeriosis which is considered a serious public health problem due to severity of symptoms and its high mortality rate specially in high-risk group. The study aimed to determine the prevalence and antibiogram of L. monocytogenes isolated from cattle, humans and environment samples at cattle farms in Jos Metropolis, Plateau State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was carried out using multistage sampling technique in three selected Local Government Areas where 254 milk, 55 faeces, 227 hand swabs, 95 cloth swabs, 107 water and 104 soil samples totalling 842 samples were collected. The ISO 11290-1 protocol was used aseptically to phenotypically characterize the isolates and the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method was used to determine the antibiogram. Data obtained were subjected to descriptive statistics using SPSS 25.0. Results showed out of the 842 samples 58 (6.89%) were positive for Listeria species. Distribution of the Listeria species showed that 12 (20.69%) were L. monocytogenes . The frequency of isolation of L. monocytogenes based on location was highest in Jos South LGA (2.08%) and the association was statistically significant ( p <0.05). The occurrence of L. monocytogenes from the highest to the lowest prevalence was observed in cloth swabs (3.16%), hand swab (2.20%), faecal sample (1.82%) and milk (1.18%) and association was not statistically significant ( p >0.05). The isolates tested against 10 antibiotics, showed 100% resistance to ceftazidime, 91.7% to ampicillin, 91.7% ceftriaxone, 83.3% to sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim while all (100%) were susceptible to ciprofloxacin. The antibiogram showed majority (91.7%) the isolates were resistance to at least four antimicrobial agents in at least three classes of antibiotics. The mean MAR index is 0.58 ± 0.2. These results are of a public health significance because this pathogenic organism have been shown to cross-contaminate meat and other animal products.
In Kenya, demand for goat meat is projected to continue rising and farmers in low input agropastoral production system are responding to the growing demand by increasing goat population, perpetuating rise in absolute and intensity of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This study assessed influence of improved husbandry on protein food production and GHG emissions. The study was conducted in agropastoral meat goat system in Baringo county where a random sample of 124 smallholder meat goat farmers was interviewed through a cross-sectional farm survey. Descriptive statistics from primary data collected in cross-sectional farm survey was the model base input for simulation modelling using GLEAM-i tool to estimate GHG emissions and productivity. Referenced on average flock performance as base situation, improved husbandry was reflected as change in flock composition towards fewer adult males, increase in slaughter (market) weight and survival rate of young stock, earlier age at first kidding, shorter kidding interval and longer productive life. Improvement in base flock performance value was either to 25 th or 75th percentile value to objectively reflect potential attainable improvement in the flock. Relative to the base situation, fewer adult males in the flock resulted in 26.9% increase in productivity but absolute emissions increased by 10.1% while emission intensity reduced by 13.4%. Improving reproductive performance increased protein production by 8.4% with a reduction of 8.3% in emission intensity and 1.1% in absolute emissions. Increasing the survival of young animals and slaughter weight increased protein production by 8.4% with an increase of 3.8% in absolute emissions and a reduction of 4.1% in emission intensity. These findings show that improved flock composition, by keeping fewer adult males and more adult females have a larger potential of increasing protein production and reducing emission intensity, implying that regular off- take of unproductive animal classes in the flock can enhance sustainability of smallholder meat goat production systems. The results will guide extension service providers and policy makers in developing climate-smart interventions for increasing goat meat production while reducing emission intensity.
Different pathological lesion of an organ has a great influence of an economy of one country by condemnation in cattle slaughtered at municipal abattoir. The study was conducted from November, 2019 to February, 2020 at Hawassa municipal abattoir, Southern Ethiopia from ama zone with the aim of determining major causes of lung and liver condemnation and to estimate the direct financial losses attributed to the condemned lungs and liver. Standard ante mortem and post-mortem inspection procedures were performed throughout the study and abnormalities encountered were recorded. A total of 567 male cattle were measured for ante mortem and post-mortem examination by orderly random sampling technique by applying identification marker from the body. During ante mortem inspection the most common abnormalities were 3 (0.53%) lameness, 2 (0.35%) nasal discharge, 1 (0.18%) skin lesions and 4 (0.71%) rough hair coat, 5 (0.88%) pale mucous membrane was conducted. Up on post mortem inspection, 298 (52.55%) of lungs were condemned due to 176 (31.04%) hydatidosis, 45 (7.94%) CBPP, 32 (5.64%) emphysema, 12 (2.12%) marbling, 11 (1.94%) Atelectasis, 10 (1.76%) calcification, 7 (1.23%) adhesion, 5 (0.88%) pneumonia and 307 (54.14%) of livers were condemned due to 187 (32.98%) fasciolosis, 53 (9.35%) hydatidosis, 33 (5.82%) calcification, 18 (3.17%) hardening, 11 (1.94%) hepatitis and 5 (0.88%) cirrhosis. From these study hydatidosis (31.04%) for lung and fasciolosis (32.98%) for liver were the major cause of condemnation rate in Hawassa municipal abattoir respectively. There was a statistically significant difference observed between age and breed of lung and liver (p>0.05 and p<0.05) respectively. Commonly fasciolosis from the liver and hydatidosis from the lung were the familiar cases from this abattoir. Finally, established public health importance to avoid eating of raw meat or organ to control the encounter disease of the abattoir.
Climate change poses a major threat to livestock livelihoods in sub-Saharan Africa, especially for smallholder farmers relying on climate-sensitive systems. This study examined farmers’ perceptions of climate change and its impact on livestock productivity in Luangwa District, Lusaka Province, Zambia. A cross-sectional survey involving 129 smallholder livestock farmers was conducted using structured questionnaires. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, ranking indices, and Likert-scale mean scores. Results showed universal awareness (100%) of climate change among respondents, with major indicators being reduced rainfall (93%), rising temperatures (93%), unpredictable weather (100%), and increased livestock diseases (80%). Deforestation (rank index=0.266) was seen as the main cause, followed by population pressure (0.223) and agricultural activities (0.174). Climate variability was believed to negatively affect livestock through less pasture (mean score 4.46), more diseases (4.48), water shortages (4.53), heat stress (4.48), decreased fertility (4.43), and higher feed costs (4.58). Farmers used several adaptation strategies, with vaccination (0.32), herd size reduction (0.25), and feed storage (0.22) ranked most important. Constraints included lack of funds (0.19), insufficient pasture (0.17), limited information (0.14), and weak institutional support (0.04). Despite challenges, most farmers rated their adaptation efforts as moderately effective and showed strong willingness (99.22%) to participate in future programs. This study offers empirical insights into perception-driven livestock adaptation in low-input systems, informing climate-smart livestock policies and extension in Zambia. It highlights the need for enhanced institutional support, targeted extension services, and climate-smart interventions to improve resilience and sustainability of smallholder livestock systems in Luangwa District.
A crosswise analysis was carried out between December 2013 and March 2014 across two seasons to assess selected camel herds. The aim was to investigate how season affects disease occurrences through field surveys and collection of serum samples. A sum of 384 nasopharyngeal aspiration samples was gathered from camels. Primary biochemical tests were utilized to classify the isolates to the genus level. A multiple variable logistic regression analysis was employed to consider the relations among potential threats and immune response. The results showed a strong association between respiratory symptoms and the season, while no significant correlation was found with the districts, sex, or age (p>0.05). The most frequently identified Gram-positive bacteria were Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus species, and Micrococcus species at rates of 19.0%, 11.1%, and 5.5%, respectively. The leading Gram-negative isolates included E. coli (15.9%), Pasteurella multocida (14.3%), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (12.7%). The study also identified a strong association between respiratory symptoms and the isolated bacteria, Mannhemia hemolytica. The study's findings suggest that various factors, such as the animals' nutritional and immune status, as well as environmental conditions, can transform the microbiota in the olfactory organ of healthy camel animals into pathogenic ones, leading to endogenous infections. The results of this study can inform the development of effective strategies for the prevention and control of camel respiratory diseases, ultimately improving their health and productivity highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and management strategies for camel health.
In Nigeria, sheep pox and goat pox is a major problem. Sheep pox and goat pox diseases are highly contagious viral diseases of small ruminants caused by a virus of the Capripox genus. This study was aimed to comparatively evaluate the clinico-pathological changes in sheep and goats manifesting the clinical cases of the diseases. The design of the study was a cross sectional survey. A total of 166 sheep (66) and goats (100) were sampled purposively. Three millilitres of blood sampled was collected from the external jugular vein of affected and apparently healthy sheep and goats used for haematological analyses. Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) was used to confirm the presence of sheeppox and/or goatpox virus in 34 scrapped skin scrapings collected from sheep (14 samples) and goats (20 samples) that showed the characteristic of pock lesions. Dead sheep and goats were necropsied and fixed in 10% neutral-buffered formalin and were routinely processed for histopathology. Clinical signs observed were fever (high rectal temperatures of 40 to 41.5°C in sheep and 38 to 40°C in goats), papules, and abortion in goats among others. The mean PCV value of sheep and goats with pock lesions (24.07±5.36%) and (27.63±5.24%), respectively were significantly lower than those of apparently healthy sheep (33.09±4.24%) and goats (31.66±2.7%). The mean HBC value of sheep and with pock lesions (8.80±2.49g/dl) was significantly lower than those of apparently sheep (11.30±1.62g/dl), while there was no significant difference between the HBC of goats with pock lesions (12.78±2.81g/dl) and apparently healthy goats (11.91±1.14g/dl). The mean RBC of sheep value (6.46±2.55×1012/L) was significantly lower than that of apparently healthy sheep (9.06±2.24 x 1012/L), The mean values for WBC count, absolute neutrophils and lymphocyte were also affected. Of the 34 skin samples collected and analyzed for the presence of sheep/goat pox viruses, 30 (88.2%) yielded positive using universal Capripox primers. Of the 30 positive samples, 21 were further subjected to sheep pox specific primers, 18 (85.7%) positive were obtained for sheeppox specific primers and no sample yielded positive result to goat specific primers. Overall, 88.2% of sheep and goat populations showing pock lesions were confirmed for sheeppox. The results of this study suggest that sheeppox virus was responsible for the disease outbreaks in sheep and goats from the study areas. Sheep pox disease has the potential of causing significant alteration in the hematological parameters resulting in anemia and immunosuppression. Yearly vaccination of sheep and goats is therefore recommended.
Cattle are a significant part of Nigeria's meat supply and livestock production, with beef being the most consumed meat, followed by sheep and goat meat. Currently, the population of cattle in Nigeria is estimated at 15.3 million, with over 90 percent owned by traditional producers in the northern regions. Indigenous breeds of cattle include the Red Bororo, White Fulani, and Sokoto Gudali. This study was aimed at establishing the normal reference hematological parameters of Bunaji cattle in Sokoto. The result obtained will be useful in determining the normal reference hematological value of Bunaji cattle in Sokoto, Nigeria, and will serve as an aid in the clinical diagnosis of various metabolic and pathological disorders, which can unfavorably affect the productive and reproductive performance of cattle, leading to heavy economic losses. An experimental study (random sampling) was conducted at the Sokoto modern abattoir for one month. Blood samples of 60 apparently healthy Bunaji cattle (male and female) ranging in age from 2 to 3 years, which were brought for slaughter, were collected using EDTA, and a complete hemogram was performed. The results obtained showed, mean of PCV (%), Hb (g/dl), RBC (x106/mm6), WBC (x103/mm3), Neutrophils (%), Lymphocytes (%), Monocytes (%), Eosinophils (%), Basophils (%), MCV (fl), MCH (pg), MCHC (g/dl) were 31.60±7.17, 10.93±2.54, 6.34±2.91, 6.62±1.70, 60.23±11.26, 37.25±11.75, 2.25±1.23, 0.07±0.25, 0±0.00, 54.04±65.49, 18.88±6.09, 34.95±4.73 respectively. It is concluded that all the hematological parameters obtained from this research were within the normal reference range with the exception of neutrophils, which had little variation.
The aim of this study was to determine whether the positive transition health, rumination, production, and reproductive responses to Cow Start Complete (CSC) supplementation seen in high milk fever risk Irish and UK studies, extend to multiparous dairy cows managed under low milk fever risk conditions in a NZ pasture-based system using once-a-day (OAD) milking during early lactation. Seventy-one multiparous crossbred dairy cows (3rd – 5th Lactation; 29 CSC-treated, 42 controls) received either 2 x CSC sustained-release boluses at calving or no supplementation. Outcomes observed included transition health performance, rumination behaviour, milk volume and milk solids production (weeks 4–24), and reproductive performance. During the first week after calving, daily rumination levels dropped more in the control group than the treatment group (control – 33 mins/day, p = 0.009 vs treatment – 1 min/day, p = 0.947). In terms of milk production, across weeks 4-24 in lactation, the CSC-treated cows produced 1.3 L more milk per day (+4.5%, p = 0.039) and 0.11 kg more milk solids per day (+3.86%, p = 0.037). Reproductive performance improved in CSC-treated cows when compared to the control cows, higher first-service conception rate (89.7% vs 63.1%, p = 0.015), fewer services per conception (1.1 vs 1.5, p = 0.012) and 9 fewer days to conception (p = 0.034). In a pasture-based herd managed under early lactation OAD milking, CSC supplementation at calving was associated with improved milk volume and milk solids production, reduced early-lactation rumination suppression, and improved reproductive performance. These findings indicate that the CSC sustained-release bolus may confer benefits beyond traditional high-risk hypocalcaemia populations.
Bovine trypanosomosis remains one of the most economically important livestock diseases in Ethiopia, particularly in tsetse-infested areas of Abeshige District. Despite long-standing national and regional control programs, limited information exists on farmers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices in this region information essential for designing community-driven interventions. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from September to November 2025 in five randomly selected kebeles of Abeshige District. A total of 250 livestock-owning households were selected through systematic random sampling. Data on farmers’ awareness, attitudes, and management practices were collected using semi-structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were applied, and findings were summarized using tables and figures. Farmers recognized bovine trypanosomosis as the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in cattle. Most respondents (66%) correctly identified tsetse flies (Glossina species) as the principal vector. Frequently reported clinical signs included weight loss, rough hair coat, coughing, and lacrimation. Trypanosomosis was widely perceived as more prevalent during the rainy season due to increased tsetse fly density. Although 97% of respondents acknowledged the disease as a major threat, only 28% were aware of ongoing tsetse control programs. Chemical sprays, pour-on insecticides, and trypanocidal drugs primarily Diminazene aceturate and Isometamidium chloride were commonly used for prevention and treatment. Despite relatively high awareness of trypanosomosis and its clinical manifestation, participation in formal tsetse control programs remains low. Strengthening community engagement, enhancing veterinary service delivery, and improving extension based awareness efforts are recommended for achieving sustainable disease control.
Dogs may acquire and transmit various Brucella spp., but their role in the epidemiology of brucellosis in Sudan is poorly characterized. This study evaluated serological evidence of Brucella exposure among two management groups of foreign-breed dogs in Khartoum State. 77 mature dogs were sampled: 45 Police-Kenneled Dogs (PKD) and 32 Citizen-Owned Dogs (COD). Whole blood was collected by venipuncture, sera separated, and screened for anti-Brucella antibodies using the Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT) and a modified RBPT protocol. Data were summarized with frequencies and percentages; associations between management type or sex and serostatus were tested with chi-square (α = 0.05). 61 out of the 77 dogs (79.2%)were tested positive by RBPT. Seropositivity was markedly higher in PKD (44/45; 97.8%) than in COD (17/32; 53.1%). The association between dog management and RBPT serostatus was highly significant (χ² = 22.652, df = 1, p < 0.001). No significant difference in seropositivity was observed between males and females (78.1% versus 80.0%, χ² = 0.040, p = 0.842). The findings reveal substantial serological evidence of Brucella exposure in the sampled population, particularly among police-housed dogs. Because RBPT detects antibodies to smooth LPS antigens and cross-reactivity or non- Brucella canis infections are possible.
The objective of this study was to determine the Demographic evolution in extensive cattle breeding in the urban area of Abeche, Chad. This study was conducted using a cross-sectional survey and a single-visit observation, with a questionnaire administered to farmers after obtaining their consent. The study was conducted from November 1 st to December 31 st , 2024, and included 75 cattle farms, comprising 54 indigenous agrobreeders and 21 agropastoralists. The information sought included: the profile of livestock farmers, herd structure, mortality rates, exploitation rates, herding practices, types of cattle farming systems, and livestock feeding and health care practices. The collected data were analyzed using XLSTAT software (6.1.9). Cattle farming in Abeche city is owned by women educated at the Koranic school, of the Banihalba Arab ethnic group. The average herd size is 18.62 ± 1.20 head, all individually owned. Cattle are acquired primarily through inheritance and mainly for sale. Reproductive performance is acceptable, with a good fertility rate and a high juvenile mortality rate. Selling cattle was the main method of cattle farming, with a higher rate among agropastoralists. Bulls were the most heavily farmed animals. The growth rate was approximately 4%. High exploitation rates and juvenile mortality have negatively impacted herd growth. The numerical yield of the herds is approximately 22%. These results will allow for targeted livestock interventions to reduce juvenile mortality and, then improve herd numerical productivity. A demographic study in other localities would allow for an assessment of the local cattle population growth rate and for organizing support for farmers on improving husbandry practices and reproductive performance.
Small ruminants, particularly goats, are essential to the livelihoods of rural communities in Sudan; however, their productivity is threatened by tick-borne diseases such as anaplasmosis. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of anaplasmosis in goats slaughtered in El Daein city, East Darfur State, Sudan, and to assess associated epidemiological and clinical risk factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2022 to February 2023 in three slaughterhouses. Blood samples (n = 175) were collected from randomly selected goats and examined for Anaplasma spp. using Giemsa-stained blood smears. Ante-mortem and post-mortem examinations were performed to identify clinical and pathological abnormalities. Data were analyzed using chi-square and logistic regression tests. The overall prevalence of anaplasmosis was 62.3%. No statistically significant association (P > 0.05) was observed between infection and sex, age, breed, or post-mortem pathological lesions including splenomegaly, gallbladder enlargement, or jaundice. However, a significant association was detected between infection and pale mucous membranes (P = 0.031), indicating anemia as a likely consequence of erythrocytic infection. Most infections appeared subclinical, suggesting endemic stability in the study area. The high prevalence indicates widespread circulation of Anaplasma among goats in East Darfur, likely driven by favorable ecological conditions for tick proliferation. Strengthening tick control strategies and routine diagnostic surveillance is recommended to reduce disease burden and improve small ruminant productivity in the region.
Meat-borne zoonotic diseases are becoming an increasing public health concern as a result of unprecedented interaction between animals and humans and deteriorating sanitation and hygiene around meat processing facilities. This study was designed to investigate the prevalence and morphology of sarcocysts isolates found in various tissues meat animals and investigate practices by butchers and meat sellers that are potential risk for human infection. A total of 75 carcasses of ruminant animals comprised of 15 Cattles, 15 Goats and 45 pigs were sampled from abattoirs in Adikpo, Otukpo and Makurdi. Animal parts were examined macroscopically, for gross pathological lesions. Organs were thoroughly inspected for the presence of Sarcocystis species macrocysts and histologically examined using Haematoxylin and Eosin Technique. Structured questionnaire was designed and administered to investigate butchers and meat sellers’ meat safety-related knowledge and practices. An abattoir checklist was used to evaluate abattoirs based on the presence and functionality meat handling processes and infrastructures. The overall prevalence of sarcocystis was 52.0% with pigs accounting for the highest infection of 73.3% (χ2=4.77 P=0.092). In all the animal tissues sampled, sarcocystis cysts were most predominant in the heart 49.33% and muscles 36.00%. Animals slaughtered in Makurdi and Adikpo abattoirs had higher sarcocystis prevalence though the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Abattoir slaughter slabs are inadequate with 47.5% of butchers slaughtering and portioning their animals on slabs while 43.1% do same on the floor inside or outside the abattoirs. While 33.5% of butchers self-reported the capacity to identify diseased and infected meat, in contrast 67.5% indicated inability to identify diseased animals or infected portions of meat. There was no significant association between the ability to identify meat- or animal-borne diseases and location (χ2=6.31 P=0.177). Furthermore, 76.3% of respondents have never undergone any formal training in safe meat handling procedures, 85.2% reported that such training is essential to reduce associated risks of contamination (χ²=6.86; p=0.032). A significant 65.7% of respondents merely cut off and discard perceived infected portion of meat while only 1.7% self-reported reported ever discarding whole carcass (χ2=51.52; P=0.000). The study underscores the urgent need for targeted health education, improved abattoir management, and routine veterinary inspections to mitigate public health risks posed by Sarcocystis infection in this region.
Cotton is attacked by several harmful factors during its growth period, the importance of each of them depends on the cultivar, climate and various agricultural and biological factors. Seed rot, seedling death, cotton thrips, aphids, bollworms, mites, leafhoppers, and whitefly are the most common damaging factors in the Iran. The use of sulfur formulations is very important for the management of diseases and pests. In this project, the effect of liquid sulfur on reducing the damage caused by the spider mite, one of the important damaging factors in cotton fields, was carried out with 6 treatments in 4 replications at Hashmabad cotton research station in Gorgan in 2022-2023. The obtained results show that liquid sulfur treatment with a dose of 4 per thousand per hectare after 7 to 10 days of spraying with an average of 56-72% effect on the cotton spider mite had the greatest effect compared to common poisons. Average of the highest percentage effect of liquid sulfur and tested acaricides on the cotton spider mite on sampling dates, liquid sulfur 2 and 4 parts per thousand with an average effect of 50.8-53.25 percent and acaricide propargite 1lit/ha with average effect of 47.08%. Therefore, due to the cheapness of liquid sulfur and its availability, it can be used in the integrated cotton pest management program in Golestan province. In addition, Liquid sulfur treatment with a dose of 6 per thousand per hectare showed burn marks on cotton leaves.
Brucellosis is one of the infectious disease that most affects sheep and goats productivity. Ethiopia is home to a significant number of animals, but it has not fully capitalized on the potential of small ruminant production. This underperformance is due to several factors, including poor genetic quality, inadequate management practices, and major challenges related to diseases. These issues pose significant barriers to achieving economic returns from small ruminant production. Additionally, farmers often develop a strong attachment to their animals, making it crucial to assess the status of zoonotic diseases, such as brucellosissis. A cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the seroprevalence of brucellosis in small ruminants and its related risk factors from February to May 2023 in Wemberima and North Mecha districts of the Amhara Region. A total of 600 sera were collected from ten purposively selected villages of the two districts (Goat, n=355 and Ovine, n = 245) and screened using RBT for the evidence of antibodies against brucellosis and confirmed by Complement Fixation Test (CFT). The study revealed an overall 3% (95% CI: 1.48-26.69) sero-prevalence of ruminant brucellosis. Species were significantly associated risk factors with Brucella seropositivity (P < 0.05) in this study. Hence, the odds of being sero-positive to Brucella was found to be 6.11 (OR=6.11; 95% CI: 1.48- 26.69) times higher in Ovine than in Caprine. All other risk variables had no significant effect (P > 0.05).
The objective of the study was to describe the phenotypic characteristics of Arab Zebu in Abeche city. A longitudinal survey was administered to 26 breeders to take body measurements, and identify the physical characteristics of 112 adult cattle (100 cows and 12 bulls, 4 years and over). The information sought was: the breeder’s profile (name, sex, age, region, ethnicity, marital status, schooling and main activities), the animal descriptions (sex, coat, horns, profile of head, back, and rump, hump and dewlap size, scabbard size in males and the tail length) and some quantitative parameters (live weight, age, length, and width of head, and rump, length of horn, tail and trunk, height at withers, and thoracic circumference). After analysis of the data collected with the XLSTAT software (9.1.6), it appears that the breeders are mostly married men, of Arab ethnic group, uneducated, and practicing the white-coated breeding. Arab cattle are mostly white coated; straight in profile, straight back, flat rump, poorly developed hump and dewlap, long tail and small cupped horns. Males have an average weight of 403 kg and females, 297 kg. The height at the withers is on average 1.16m with 1.22m in males and 1.14m in females. Chest circumference, and live weight are strongly correlated. Studies in-depth on the phenotypic, and genetic characteristics of this breed will make a complete description of all the parameters and establish a suitable barymetry formula.
Microbiological safety associated with fresh meat is growing a public health concern in West Africa, where meat consumption is on the rise, but regulatory systems are weak or poorly implemented. Many previous investigations have demonstrated that meat is frequently contaminated with foodborne pathogens and some of them are also carrying alarming levels of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The objective for this systematic review was to estimate the prevalence and AMR of key bacterial pathogens from fresh meat sold in West Africa. A systematic review of literature in three databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect and Google Scholar), with peer-reviewed articles from 2010 to 2025 being selected. Analysis was based on 23 studies qualifying inclusion requirements. The information taken included: study design, sampling place, type of meat (beef, chicken, goat, and pork) and species of bacteria, and patterns of resistance. The findings reveal high contamination rates in all meat types, with Campylobacter spp. being particularly prevalent in poultry. Multidrug-resistant strains of E. coli and Salmonella spp. were also frequently reported. Contributing factors include poor hygiene during slaughter and handling, lack of cold chain infrastructure, and widespread, often unregulated, use of antibiotics in animal farming. The presence of AMR pathogens in meat not only threatens food safety but also complicates treatment options for foodborne illnesses. Given the scale and severity of these issues, urgent actions are required. These include the implementation of standardized microbiological monitoring, strict enforcement of hygiene and slaughterhouse regulations, and the development of regional guidelines for antibiotic use in livestock. Public awareness campaigns and training for food handlers should be prioritized, along with investment in infrastructure and surveillance systems. Future research should also focus on evaluating the effectiveness of mitigation strategies and improving country specific data to support policymaking. Adopting a regional “One Health” approach that integrates human, animal, and environmental health perspectives is essential for a sustainable and effective response to foodborne microbial threats in West Africa.
To establish evidence-based shipping requirements for sera submitted to reference laboratories for vaccinal antibody testing, the stability of canine antibody was determined over four weeks at temperatures simulating ground transport conditions. Known positive canine serum samples (n = 22) were tested to determine quantitative antibody titers using two gold-standard serologic assays. Antibody titer against canine parvovirus (CPV-2) via hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay and against canine adenovirus (CAV-1) via serum virus neutralization (SVN) assay. Samples were aliquoted and held at static temperatures: in a refrigerator (6°C), at room temperature (25°C), and in an incubator (36°C) Samples were randomized and repeat tested at weeks 2, 3, and 4. Statistical equivalence was determined using paired two one-sided t-test (TOST), with zone of indifference of ± 1 dilution. For both antibody assays, experimental groups demonstrated statistical equivalence to refrigerated controls through week 4 (p < 0.05 for all comparisons.) These results demonstrate that canine vaccinal antibodies remain stable for four weeks at continuous elevated temperatures that might be encountered during ground shipment. This finding supports the implementation of less restrictive shipping requirements for canine vaccinal antibody testing, potentially reducing costs for veterinary practitioners and pet owners, and ultimately allowing greater access to important diagnostic testing.
Porcine cysticercosis (PC), caused by the larval stage of Taenia solium, presents significant public health and economic challenges, particularly in resource-limited regions. This study determined the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of PC transmission in Ngara District, Tanzania. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, involving 342 pigs from 12 villages. Serum samples were analyzed using the cysticercosis antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Ag-ELISA). To assess the risk factors, a semi-structured questionnaire was administered via Kobo Toolbox, along with direct observations. The overall seroprevalence of PC was 13.74%, with significant variation across villages (p<0.05), although no significant differences were observed between pig age groups or sexes (p>0.05). Higher prevalence rates were observed in the villages of Bukiriro, Mumuhamba, Kigina, and Ntobeye. Adult pigs showed a slightly higher prevalence compared to weaners and growers. A total of 114 pig-keeping households were surveyed, and data analysis was performed using R Version 4.4.1, employing Generalized Linear Models (GLM) with a binomial logistic regression approach. The analysis identified several significant risk factors associated with PC seropositivity, including: (1) Source of feed (OR = 1.25, 95% CI: 1.18 - 1.97, p = 0.001), (2) Open defecation (OR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.18 - 3.27, p = 0.0005), and (3) Husbandry system (Scavenging/Tethering pigs) (OR = 1.98, 95% CI: 0.72 - 2.19, p = 0.0006). Despite existing knowledge on PC transmission and seroprevalence in sub-Saharan Africa, there is a limited understanding of its epidemiology in specific regions like Ngara District. This gap is critical, as localized risk factors and transmission dynamics may differ significantly across regions. This study provides baseline data on the epidemiology of PC in Ngara District, emphasizing the need for targeted intervention strategies to reduce transmission risks in both pig and human populations.
