Assesment of the Prevalence and Risk Factors of Haemonchus Contortus Infection of Sheep and Goat in Afgooye District, Lower Shabelle, Somalia

Abstract Background Haemonchus contributes considerably to the economic losses incurred in the rearing of small ruminants in developing countries, impacting both small and large-scale operations. This parasitic nematode is widespread in tropical and subtropical regions, resulting in substantial losses in production, impaired growth, and elevated mortality rates among the young animals. Methods A cross-sectional investigation was implemented in seven villages situated in the Afgoye district, Lower Shabelle, Somalia, between September 2023 and February 2024. During this period, 384 fecal samples from small ruminants were obtained and examined using direct smear and flotation techniques to determine the occurrence and risk factors of haemonchosis in sheep and goats. Results The study's results demonstrated a substantial prevalence of Haemonchus contortus among the animals, with a total of 41.67% being infected. Specifically, the infection rate was 30.73% for sheep (246/384) and 10.94% for goats (138/384), with no statistically significant difference between the two species (χ²=2.235, P=0.135). The higher rate of infection in sheep may be due to their grazing habits, which involve feeding closer to the ground and increased exposure to infective larvae (L3). Additionally, variations in feeding behaviors between sheep and goats were also observed. Sheep and goats in the Afgooye district of the Lower Shabelle region in Somalia were examined for haemonchosis. In female sheep, 20.09% tested positive for the condition, while in male sheep, 7.29% showed positive results. For goats, 9.11% of females and 5.18% of males were infected, with no observable gender-based difference. Animals aged over four years had a slightly higher infection rate of 18.75%, compared to those aged 1-4 years (11.46%) and under one year (11.46%), indicating a significant age-related correlation. The influence of body condition on infection rates was not found to be significant. However, animals in middle and poor condition exhibited higher rates of infection at 17.71% and 14.58%, respectively, compared to those in good condition at 9.38%. Additionally, the grazing practices employed had an impact on the prevalence of the infection, with animals that were allowed to free-graze showing a higher prevalence rate of 20.83%, compared to those engaged in mixed grazing at 16.67% and zero grazing at 4.17%. Conclusions This research offers essential insights into haemonchosis in sheep and goats in Afgoye, which can be used to develop effective farm management practices. The findings particularly highlight the importance of parasite control and eradication strategies to mitigate the impact of haemonchosis on small ruminant production.