Prevalence and Risk Factors of Ovine Fasciolosis in Sheep Slaughtered at Addis Ababa Abattoir Enterprise, Ethiopia

Ovine fasciolosis is a widely prevalent trematode disease of small ruminants in Ethiopia that causes significant animal health and economic impacts, particularly in sheep. A cross‐sectional study was carried out at Addis Ababa Abattoir Enterprise, Ethiopia, from December 2022 to May 2023 with the objective of estimating the prevalence of ovine fasciolosis and assessing associated risk factors. A total of 384 sheep were sampled and subjected to antemortem and postmortem examinations. Descriptive statistics, chi‐square ( X 2 ) tests, and a multivariable logistic regression model were employed for data analysis, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05 and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Out of 384 sheep examined, the overall prevalence of ovine fasciolosis was estimated to be 20.57% ( n  = 79/384; 95% CI: 16.53%–24.61%). The present study identified breed ( p < 0.001), body condition score ( p = 0.001), and the geographical origin of sheep ( p < 0.001) as associated risk factors affecting the prevalence of ovine fasciolosis. Local breed sheep had significantly higher odds of ovine fasciolosis infection than crossbreeds, being 3.27 times more likely to be affected (AOR = 3.27; 95% CI: 1.79–5.98; p < 0.001). Sheep with poor body condition (32.11%) were significantly more likely to be infected with ovine fasciolosis than those in good body condition (AOR = 3.70; 95% CI: 1.89–7.25; p < 0.001). In addition, sheep from Debre Berhan had significantly higher odds (AOR = 5.31; 95% CI: 2.11–13.36), while those from Bishoftu showed lower odds (AOR = 0.39; 95% CI: 0.16–0.97). In conclusion, ovine fasciolosis remains prevalent among sheep slaughtered at the study abattoir. Breed, body condition, and geographic origin were significant risk factors. Control of fasciolosis should emphasize strategic deworming in high‐risk areas, improved husbandry, farmer education programs, routine surveillance, and ongoing epidemiological research.