Distribution of Hydatidosis and its Economic Significance in Domestic Small Ruminants in Selected Abattoirs in Belgut, Kenya

Ecchinococcus tapeworm has a complex life cycle involving two hosts; intermediate (herbivores) and definitive as dogs or wild carnivores. The larval stages infect visceral organs of herbivores and humans and develop into fluid-filled cysts that exert pressure to these organs interfering with their normal physiological functions. Identification of the cysts is normally made during post-mortem meat inspection leading to condemnation of infected organs for aesthetic purposes.

A retrospective study was carried out in Belgut Sub-county, Kericho County by reviewing slaughterhouse data for the period between 2012 and 2016 to identify organs of small domestic ruminants condemned due to hydatid infections. Records from six selected abattoirs were reviewed and the number of organs condemned tabulated. Simple statistics of percentage and proportions were done and associated economic value computed based on the monetary value of each organ condemned during this period.

A total of 35,771 sheep and goats were slaughtered in the 5- year study period; 22.21% (7943/35771) sheep and 77.79% (27828/35771) goats. For sheep, a total of 267 livers and 215 lungs were condemned, whereas for goats; 710 livers and 646 lungs were condemned for harboring hydatid cysts. Annual prevalence of infection was calculated and it was found out that the trend is generally reducing. From ovine organs condemned, a total of KSh 58,775 was lost while KSh 158,150 was lost from condemned caprine organs giving a total of KSh 216,925for the five-year study period. From these findings, it is evident that Hydatidosis is still a challenge in small stock industry in Belgut Sub-County as it is one of the main causes of organ condemnation. Liver and lung of sheep and goats were the only organs found to be infected in this study and these led to their condemnation and hence direct economic losses to butchers. Therefore, regular deworming of dogs, proper and strict disposal of rejected/condemned organs as well as public education to increase awareness on parasitic zoonoses are recommended to reduce the burden of this parasite and the possible crossover to humans.

Keywords: Sheep; Goats; Hydatidosis; Prevalence; Belgut