Prevalence and management of gastrointestinal helminths in pigs in Mpwapwa district, Dodoma, Tanzania

Abstract

This study assessed the prevalence and management of gastrointestinal helminths (GIH) in pigs in three wards of Mpwapwa District, Dodoma, Tanzania. Faecal samples from 160 pigs were analyzed using the saturated sodium chloride flotation method, and eggs per gram (EPG) were quantified with a McMaster counting chamber. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on GIH control practices from 52 smallholder pig farmers. Gastrointestinal helminths were detected in 31.9% of pigs, with strongyle-type helminths showing the highest prevalence (26.9%), followed by Ascaris suum (6.3%) and Trichuris suis (3%). Single-species infections were most common (28.1%), while double infections were less frequent (3.8%). Although the prevalence of infection was higher in female pigs (23.8%) compared to males (8.1%), the difference was not statistically significant. Adult pigs showed a significantly higher prevalence (26.9%) compared to piglets (5%). Among the villages, Gulwe had the highest prevalence (13.7%), followed by Igovu (12.5%) and Ving’hawe (5.6%), although differences were not statistically significant. Effective control practices for GIH identified in this study included deworming using modern drugs, improved sanitation, and water source, and meat inspection. This study highlights the presence of Ascaris suum, Trichuris suis, and strongyle-type helminths in pigs in Mpwapwa district. An integrated approach, including enhanced veterinary services, farmer education, and parasite management, is crucial. The zoonotic risk of certain helminths emphasizes the importance of a One Health approach to safeguard animal and human health while improving pig productivity