Sero-epidemiological study of ecto- and endo- parasites and their hematological effects in small ruminants reared under pastoral system in district Bannu, Pakistan

The parasitic infestations pose major global threat to animal population which leads to serious economical and health problems. Small ruminants are major source of cash income for many rural populations, especially in low income settings of developing countries. A total of 1000 (500 sheep and 500 goats) fecal samples were collected and analyzed for the detection of any parasitic ova using direct smear microscopy and flotation method. Hemonchus, trichostrongyloid and fasciola viz, 41.7, 11.9 and 11.3% respectively, were the major helminthes in both sheep and goat populations. Coccidia, trichuris and strongyloids were also detected in considerable percentage viz, 7.7, 6.2 and 3.2 % respectively. Similarly ecto-parasites (lice, ticks and mites) were found 22.8, 9 and 7.5 % with relatively more infection in goat than sheep but the internal helminthes were more in sheep than goat population. The hematological profile of infected animals revealed marked decrease in hemoglobin posing anemia while slight increase in total leukocyte count and eosinophils were also recorded. In conclusion heavy ecto and endo-parasitic infestation were recorded in the target area ovine population which draws the immediate attention of policy makers of the area to construct an obdurate strategy to minimize the infection and heavy economic losses.