A Cross-Sectional Study of Gastro-Intestinal Tract (GIT) Nematode Infestation in Small Ruminants in Kamba District, Gamo Zone, South Ethiopia

Abstract

Small ruminant production is the integral part of livestock production with major economic significance in Kamba district. However, their productive and reproductive performance is very low which could be associated with parasitic infestations. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of gastro-intestinal parasites of small ruminants and its major risk factors in the Kamba district, Gamo zone, South Ethiopia. A cross-sectional survey was conducted to estimate the prevalence and risk factors associated with small ruminant nematodes in Kamba district. The study lasted between August, 2025 to February, 2026. A total of 384 small ruminants (250 sheep and 134 goats) were examined using standard parasitological procedure. The study revealed that the overall prevalence of nematode was 52.08%. The species level prevalence of nematode was 52.0 % and 52.24% in sheep and goats, respectively. In animals with poor body condition and previously non treated (dewormed) animals the nematode egg detection level was higher than the corresponding categories (p<0.05). However no statistically significant difference was noted between sex, species, and age of the animals. Hence the need for strategic deworming and other related measures were suggested to reduce the production loss associated with GIT nematodes in small ruminants.

Keywords: Gastrointestinal Nematodes; Prevalance; Small Ruminants; Kamba District

Citation

Mara A, Labena A. A Cross-Sectional Study of Gastro-Intestinal Tract (GIT) Nematode Infestation in Small Ruminants in Kamba District, Gamo Zone, South Ethiopia. WebLog J Vet Sci Anim Husb. wjvsah.2026.i0305. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.22645397