Abstract:
Hydatidosis/echinococcosis (Echinococcus granulosus, Batsch, 1786) is
considered to be a serious problem for both public health and the livestock economy
in Ethiopia. The present paper reviews and summarizes available data on the
disease. Abattoir survey data collected over a period of 15 years (1985-1999) were
analyzed to assess the infection prevalence of hydatidosis in domestic animals in
three different agroecological zones of Ethiopia. Accordingly, 8036/22,863 (35.15%)
cattle, 768/6518 (11.78%) sheep, 36/1753 (4.9%) goats, 70/417 (16.79%) camels and
0/150 (0%) pigs slaughtered in 21 different abattoirs located in various parts of the
country were found harbouring hydatid cysts. A statistical discernible significant
difference (p<0.001) was observed in the overall hydatidosis infection prevalence
between the different species of animals, and in infection prevalence of bovine
hydatidosis in the three agroecological zones where the slaughtered cattle were
believed to originate from. Similarly, a statistically significant difference (p<0.01)
in the prevalence of ovine hydatidosis was observed between mid-altitude and
lowland agroecologies. Conversely, there was no significant difference (p>0.20)
in the infection prevalence of caprine hydatidosis between mid-altitude and
lowlands. The present study reconfirms that hydatid disease is widespread and
highly prevalent in ruminant livestock in Ethiopia and warrants institution of a
nation-wide control measures. Considerations on experiences of other countries
with respect to the economic benefits that hydatid disease control programs may
bring to livestock producers and combining such efforts with other zoonosis control
schemes in view of the ‘one health’ initiative is worthy for animal health planners
and policy decision-makers. The paper also serves as a quick reference source on
hydatidosis in the country and basis for future studies
