Infection prevalence of hydatidosis (Echinococcus granulosus, Batsch, 1786) in domestic animals in Ethiopia: A synthesis report of previous surveys

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.