Study on Predisposing Factors and Control Measures against Cryptosporidiosis in Buffalo Calves at Cattle Colony Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan

The current study looked at the variables affecting the frequency of Cryptosporidium parvum in buffalo calves at the Hyderabad Cattle Colony. From calves, 100 fecal samples were taken in total, preserved, and analyzed using direct smear and Ziehl-Neelsen staining methods. 74 percent of the samples tested positive for Cryptosporidium parvum. Disease rates were higher in Nili Ravi calves (86 %) compared to Kundhi calves (62 %), with a statistically significant difference (p<0.05). Calves under the age of one month had the highest prevalence (92.5 %), also showing significant variation across age groups. Male calves (82 %) were more affected than females (66 %). The study further analyzed risk factors: 47.3 % of calves on both milk and fodder were positive, while those drinking tubewell water showed a higher prevalence (71.6 %) than those consuming groundwater. Incidence was also higher in intensively housed calves (54 %) compared to semi-intensive (46 %), and in calves kept on katcha floors (56.8 %). Poor hygiene significantly increased infection rates, with 74.3 % of calves raised in unsanitary conditions testing positive. Additionally, calves with signs of illness or diarrhea had a 74 % infection rate. The findings underscore the importance of breed, age, gender, housing, hygiene, and water supply as major risk factors for buffalo calves' exposure to cryptosporidiosis.