Common Health Problems of the One Humped Camel (Camelus dromedarius) Introduced into Sub-Humid Climate in Zaria, Nigeria

The prevalence of common diseases of the one humped camel (Camelus dromedarius) introduced into a sub-humid savanna climate of Nigeria for a period of 3 years (2002-2005) is reported. A total of 85 clinical cases were examined. Sixty-seven and thirty-three percents were in the rainy season (June to October) and dry season (November to May) respectively. The most prevalent health problem was helminthosis (31.8%). Egg counts of up to 800 per gram of faeces (epg) were recorded during the rainy season. Traumatic injuries recorded 17.6%, tick infestation 10.6% and footpad perforation 8.2%. Others were conjunctivitis 5.9%, mange 4.7%, abscesses 4.7%, lameness 7.1%, enteritis 2.4%, abortion 2.4%, coccidiosis 2.4%, kneecap dislocation 1.2% and bent-neck syndrome 1.2%. Blood parasites observed were Anaplasma marginale and microfilaria. Two male camels died during the period of study, the first death being due to pneumogastroenteritis and the second of bent-neck syndrome. The disease conditions showed remarkable seasonal pattern of occurrence with higher prevalence during the rainy season. The undiagnosed cases of musculoskeletal incoordination needs further research for effective introduction of camels into sub humid zone of Nigeria.