Assesment of the Prevalence and Risk Factors of Haemonchus Contortus Infection of Sheep and Goat in Afgooye District, Lower Shabelle, Somalia

Assesment of the Prevalence and Risk Factors of Haemonchus Contortus Infection of Sheep and Goat in Afgooye District, Lower Shabelle, Somalia | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article Assesment of the Prevalence and Risk Factors of Haemonchus Contortus Infection of Sheep and Goat in Afgooye District, Lower Shabelle, Somalia Moktar Omar Sheikh Mohamed, Abdirahmaan Mohamad . Yasin, Naciima Ahmad . Jama This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4624721/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Background Haemonchus contributes considerably to the economic losses incurred in the rearing of small ruminants in developing countries, impacting both small and large-scale operations. This parasitic nematode is widespread in tropical and subtropical regions, resulting in substantial losses in production, impaired growth, and elevated mortality rates among the young animals. Methods A cross-sectional investigation was implemented in seven villages situated in the Afgoye district, Lower Shabelle, Somalia, between September 2023 and February 2024. During this period, 384 fecal samples from small ruminants were obtained and examined using direct smear and flotation techniques to determine the occurrence and risk factors of haemonchosis in sheep and goats. Results The study's results demonstrated a substantial prevalence of Haemonchus contortus among the animals, with a total of 41.67% being infected. Specifically, the infection rate was 30.73% for sheep (246/384) and 10.94% for goats (138/384), with no statistically significant difference between the two species (χ²=2.235, P=0.135). The higher rate of infection in sheep may be due to their grazing habits, which involve feeding closer to the ground and increased exposure to infective larvae (L3). Additionally, variations in feeding behaviors between sheep and goats were also observed. Sheep and goats in the Afgooye district of the Lower Shabelle region in Somalia were examined for haemonchosis. In female sheep, 20.09% tested positive for the condition, while in male sheep, 7.29% showed positive results. For goats, 9.11% of females and 5.18% of males were infected, with no observable gender-based difference. Animals aged over four years had a slightly higher infection rate of 18.75%, compared to those aged 1-4 years (11.46%) and under one year (11.46%), indicating a significant age-related correlation. The influence of body condition on infection rates was not found to be significant. However, animals in middle and poor condition exhibited higher rates of infection at 17.71% and 14.58%, respectively, compared to those in good condition at 9.38%. Additionally, the grazing practices employed had an impact on the prevalence of the infection, with animals that were allowed to free-graze showing a higher prevalence rate of 20.83%, compared to those engaged in mixed grazing at 16.67% and zero grazing at 4.17%. Conclusions This research offers essential insights into haemonchosis in sheep and goats in Afgoye, which can be used to develop effective farm management practices. The findings particularly highlight the importance of parasite control and eradication strategies to mitigate the impact of haemonchosis on small ruminant production. Haemonchosis Prevalence Small Ruminants Afgoye Somali Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 Background of the Study Haemonchus contortus, often referred to as the barber's pole worm, is a noteworthy parasitic helminth that has a significant impact on the global livestock industry, particularly affecting small ruminants, such as sheep and goats (Knox, Redmond et al. 1993, Charlier, Rinaldi et al. 2020). This nematode feeds on the blood of ruminants by penetrating the abomasum capillaries, causing substantial blood loss, anemia, and hypoproteinemia (Hoberg and Zarlenga 2016 ). In severe cases, infected animals may experience reduced digestive capacity, which can lead to a decline in the intake of nitrogen, organic matter, and energy, potentially resulting in death (Kaplan and Vidyashankar 2012 , Besier, Kahn et al. 2016). Somalia is home to an estimated 51,899,000 livestock, with sheep and goats (36,834,000) constituting the majority, followed by camels (7.3 million). These small ruminants play a crucial role in mixed production systems, combining agro-pastoral and pastoralist agricultural techniques (Too, Masake et al. 2015).They provide essential income for the agricultural community, and their live animals, meat, and skins are significant exports (Sheferaw, Degefu et al. 2010). Small ruminants contribute to the economy by providing meat, milk, fiber, monetary income, and skin, and they are well-suited to harsh climates, consuming plants unsuitable for larger ruminants, and requiring fewer labor-intensive inputs (Fraser 1991 ). Internal parasites are a major cause of illness and productivity loss in small ruminants, according to (Panuska 2006 ). Parasitic diseases are a global issue that result in reduced productivity and substantial economic losses, which disproportionately affect smallholder dairy farming communities, as noted by (Abera, Mohammed et al. 2010, Dagnachew, Amamute et al. 2011). Among the diseases that limit the survival and productivity of sheep, Haemonchus contortus infection ranks as the highest globally, as stated by (Moges, Hebtom et al. 2017). This parasite is particularly significant in small ruminant production systems in tropical and subtropical regions due to its high fecundity and short generational interval, which allow it to adapt and resist control measures, as highlighted by (Bowie 2014 ). H. contortus is most active in warm, humid climates during the summer months, and adult worms inhabit the abdominal mucosa of sheep, feeding on their blood. Compared to other gastrointestinal nematodes, Haemonchus is the most critical parasite of domestic ruminants, particularly sheep and goats, as indicated by (Perry, Randolph et al. 2002). If left untreated, haemonchosis can result in protein deficiency, anemia, bottle jaw (swelling of the lower jaw due to anemia), digestive disturbances, and death, as noted by (Williams 2011 ). The abomasum is an essential site for bursate nematodes belonging to the Trichostrongylidae family in small ruminants, including Haemonchus spp., Teladorsagia spp., Ostertagia spp., and Trichostrongylus spp. These gastrointestinal nematodes can harm health, cause mortalities, weight loss, and other production losses (Vlassoff and McKenna 1994 , Sultan, Desoukey et al. 2010). Small ruminants, such as sheep and goats, are essential for family stability, providing meat, milk, skin, wool, cash income, and fulfilling traditional social and religious roles. Haemonchus contortus, a blood-feeding nematode parasitizing the abomasum, significantly impacts ovine production, particularly in areas with predominantly summer rainfall (Santín-Durán, Alunda et al. 2008). H. contortus is highly pathogenic, causing anemia, reduced productivity, and death in infected animals (Burke, Kaplan et al. 2007). Gastrointestinal nematode infection ranks highest on a global index for diseases affecting ovine and goats, with Barber's pole worm being critically important (Perry, Randolph et al. 2002). Internal parasitic infection impacts are significant in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Ethiopia, due to appropriate agro-ecological conditions for various hosts and intestinal parasitic species (Mohammed, Taye et al. 2016). Despite the high population of small ruminants, the quality and quantity of their products are suboptimal due to gastrointestinal parasites like H. contortus, causing anemia, reduced fertility, economic losses through reduced productivity, and increased mortality in severely infected sheep and goats (Qamar, Maqbool et al. 2011, Seyoum, Getnet et al. 2018). The disease caused by Haemonchus contortus is due to the host's inability to compensate for blood loss, resulting in significant economic losses, particularly in tropical and temperate regions (Chaudary, Khan et al. 2007). This parasitic disease has also been found in colder climates, extending as far north as the Arctic Circle (Durrani, Kamal et al. 2007). The primary causes of economic losses include mortality, decreased production, stunted growth, poor weight gain, and poor feed utilization (Tariq, Chishti et al. 2008). The high morbidity, mortality, and cost of treatment and control measures contribute to the lower production levels (Tariq, Chishti et al. 2008). Parasitic diseases, including Haemonchus contortus, are major constraints on livestock health and productivity worldwide (Abera, Mohammed et al. 2010). H. contortus causes several harmful effects, such as growth retardation, low productivity, loss of appetite, decreased protein levels, impaired digestion, and poor reproductive performance, which ultimately lead to reduced meat and wool production (Abera, Mohammed et al. 2010). Unfortunately, the lack of thorough parasitological research and documentation in Somalia impedes the development of effective control programs for Haemonchus contortus infections. This study aims to address these gaps by examining the prevalence and risk factors of Haemonchus contortus infection in sheep and goats in Afgoye, Lower Shabelle, Somalia. Methodology A cross-sectional investigation was conducted from September 2023 to February 2024 to determine the prevalence and potential risk factors of Haemonchus contortus infection in sheep and goats. The researchers assessed and documented the animals' age, sex, and body condition prior to collecting samples. Target Population The research was conducted on a group of 384 sheep and goats living in the Afgoye district of the Lower Shabelle Region. The sample included animals of various ages and genders, ensuring comprehensive representation. Study Area The research was conducted in the Lower Shabelle Region, with a particular emphasis on the villages located within the Afgoye district. Afgoye, situated in southwestern Somalia, is the third-largest city in the Southwest State and one of the oldest towns in the Lower Shabelle valley. The climate of the region is characterized by a hot and arid environment year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 26 to 28 degrees Celsius, as stated by Muchiri (2007). The temperature variations between the warmest months (December to March) and the coolest months (July and August) are minimal; however, these fluctuations are more pronounced inland when compared to the coast. During August, temperatures can decrease to 16 degrees Celsius, as indicated by Luling (2002). Sample Size Determination and Sampling Procedure The expected prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in sheep and goats in the study area was assumed to be 50%. The sample size was calculated using the formula provided by Thrusfield (2005), with a 95% confidence interval and a 5% desired level of precision: N = \(\frac{\mathbf{Z} ² \left(\mathbf{P}\mathbf{e}\mathbf{x}\mathbf{p}\right)(1-\mathbf{P}\mathbf{e}\mathbf{x}\mathbf{p})}{\mathbf{d}²}\) = \(\frac{\left({1.96}^{2}\right)0.5(1-0.5)}{(0.5)²}\) = 384 N= [1.962 Pexp (1-Pexp)]/d2 Where: N = sample size; Pexp = expected prevalence. D = Desired absolute precision; Нen by taking Pexp = 50% and d = 5% N = 1.962 × 0.5 (1- 0.50)/0.05; N = 384 Collection of Fecal Samples Fecal specimens were collected from the rectums of each sheep and goat using disposable gloves designed for protection. These specimens were placed in labeled containers, which were marked with the animal's age, sex, place of origin, and date of collection. To prevent cross-contamination, separate containers and gloves were used for each specimen, and the specimens were kept on ice before being transported to the Veterinary and Animal Science Laboratory at the Somali National Laboratory for parasitological analysis. Examination and Identification of Parasites Samples were promptly conveyed to the laboratory for examination through the application of direct smear and flotation methods to identify ova or larvae of parasites. The materials utilized comprised gloves, pens, paper, lab coats, slides, tubes, cover slips, and saturated solutions. The parasitological examination was executed with remarkable efficiency and precision, guaranteeing precise outcomes. Direct Smear Method A thin smear was prepared by spreading a small amount of feces on a clean, grease-free slide, which was then examined under a microscope at low power (10X) as described by Soulsby18. Flotation Method This method, commonly employed for detecting nematode and cestode eggs, entails combining nearly 3 grams of fecal sample with 15 milliliters of water, lightly grinding the mixture, and filtering it through a tea strainer. The resulting filtrate is then centrifuged at 1000 revolutions per minute for five minutes, followed by the replacement of the solution with saturated sodium chloride. The mixture is centrifuged once again, and a cover slip is placed on the resulting convex surface, which is removed after a few minutes and examined under a microscope at both 10X and 40X magnifications. Photographs are then taken of any cysts, eggs, or parasites present, which are identified based on their color, shape, and size. Data Analysis Raw data from the selected areas and laboratory examinations were entered into a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. The data were analyzed using the R programming language. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the prevalence of parasites and associated risk factors (age, sex, body condition, and health status), and statistical analysis was performed using percentage calculations and Chi-square tests. Ethical Considerations Ethical considerations were paramount in this study. Researchers ensured the confidentiality and privacy of respondents, with unpublished data kept strictly for academic purposes. Preliminary contact was made with farmers and animal owners, either by phone or in person, to explain the study's objectives and obtain informed consent. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION RESULTS Overall Prevalence of Haemonchosis In the present investigation, a total of 384 sheep and goats were assessed for the presence of Haemonchosis. The results revealed that 160 of the animals were positive, while 224 were negative, indicating an overall prevalence rate of 41.67% (Table 1 ). Table 1 Overall Relative prevalence of Haemonchosis in sheep and goats at in Afgoye district lower Shabelle Somalia. Total animals examined No positive No negative Prevalence% 384 160 224 41.67% Relative prevalence of Haemonchosis on the basis of sheep and goat species The relative prevalence of Haemonchosis, a parasitic condition, in two different species: sheep and goats. In the study, a total of 246 sheep were examined, with 118 of them testing positive for Haemonchosis, resulting in a prevalence rate of 30.73%. Similarly, 138 goats were examined, and 42 of them were found to be positive, indicating a prevalence rate of 10.94% (Table 2 ). There was no significance difference between sheep and goat occurring on Haemonchosis (χ2 = 2.235, P = 0.135). Table 2 Relative prevalence of Haemonchosis on the basis of sheep and goats species in Afgoye district lower Shabelle Somalia. Species No of animals examined No of positive Prevalence (%) Chi-square P-value Sheep 246 118 30.73% 2.235 0.135 ns Goat 138 42 10.94% Total 384 160 41.67% *Significant, p < 0.05 ns not significant The graph below illustrates that the distribution of test results, in terms of the ratio of negative to positive outcomes, differs between the goat and sheep species. Goats show a more skewed distribution towards negative results compared to sheep (Fig. 1 ). Relative prevalence of Haemonchosis based on location in sheep and goats In the study, presences of prevalence rate of Haemonchosis based on location in sheep and goats within the Afgoye district of Lower Shabelle, Somalia. In Markazka: Out of 80 animals examined, 36 tested positive for Haemonchosis, resulting in a prevalence rate of 9.38%. In Jambalul: Among the 72 animals examined, 40 tested positive, leading to a prevalence rate of 10.42%. In If iyo aqiro: Within the 68 animals examined, 33 tested positive, resulting in a prevalence rate of 8.59%. In Buulalow: Out of 60 animals examined in this location, 32 tested positive, indicating a prevalence rate of 8.33%. In Beeruxa: Among the 53 animals examined, only 3 tested positive for Haemonchosis, resulting in a low prevalence rate of 0.78%. In Carbiska: Within the 30 animals examined, 12 tested positive for Haemonchosis, yielding a prevalence rate of 3.13% and Afgoye: Out of 21 animals examined, 4 tested positive for Haemonchosis, resulting in a prevalence rate of 1.04% (Table 3 ). The chi-square result indicated there was no significance difference between the locations (χ2 = 11.324, P = 0.079). Table 3 Relative prevalence of Haemonchosis based on location in sheep and goats within the Afgoye district of Lower Shabelle, Somalia Locations No of animals examined No of positive Prevalence (%) Chi-square P-value Markazka 80 36 9.38% 11.324 0.079 ns Jambalul 72 40 10.42% If iyo Aakhiro 68 33 8.59% Buulalow 60 32 8.33% Bayru ruuxa 53 3 0.78% Carbiska 30 12 3.13% Afgoye 21 4 1.04% Total 384 160 41.67% *significant, p < 0.05ns not significant The graph below shows the distribution of test results, classified as negative or positive, across various geographic areas. Afgoye has the most dramatic asymmetry, with a much higher number of negative results than positive. Markazka shows a more appropriate mix of negative and positive test results. The remaining places have varied levels of difference between negative and positive test results (Fig. 2 ). Haemonchosis and its risk factors. Risk Factor: Sex In sheep, 210 females were examined, 81 of them were positive and their prevalence rate was 20.09%. Among males, 58 male sheep were examined, 28 of them were positive and their prevalence was 7.29%. In goat, 86 females were examined, 35 of them were positive and their prevalence was 9.11%. Similarly, in males goats 30 males were examined, 16 of them were positive and there prevalence was 5.18% (as shown as Table 4). There was no significance difference between male and female (χ2 = 0.463, P = 0.496) Risk Factor: Age (year) 1 year: Within the 109 animals examined that were 1 year old, 44 tested positive for Haemonchosis, resulting in a prevalence rate of 11.46%. 1–4 years: Among the 156 animals examined in the age range of 1–4 years, 44 tested positive, yielding a prevalence rate of 11.46%. The chi-square value and p-value for this age group are not specified. Greater than 4 years: Out of th 119 animals examined that were older than 4 years, 72 tested positive for Haemonchosis, indicating a prevalence rate of 18.75% (as shown as Table 4). There was significance association between age groups (χ2 = 7.573, P = 0.023). Risk Factor: Type of grazing Free: Among the 158 animals examined in free grazing conditions, 80 tested positive for Haemonchosis, resulting in a prevalence rate of 20.83%. Mixed: Within the 130 animals examined in mixed grazing conditions, 64 tested positive, leading to a prevalence rate of 16.67%. Zero: Out of the 96 animals examined in zero grazing conditions, 16 tested positive for Haemonchosis, yielding a prevalence rate of 4.17% (as shown as Table 4). There was significance association between type of grazing (χ2 = 8.587, P = 0.013). Risk Factor: Body condition Poor: Within the 138 animals examined with poor body condition, 68 tested positive for Haemonchosis, resulting in a prevalence rate of 17.71%. Middle: Among the 149 animals examined with average body condition, 56 tested positive, indicating a prevalence rate of 14.58%. Good: Out of the 97 animals examined with good body condition, 36 tested positive for Haemonchosis, resulting in a prevalence rate of 9.38% (as shown as Table 4). There was no significance association in body condition (χ2 = 1.338, P = 0.512). Table 1 Relative prevalence of Haemonchosis based on risks factors in sheep and goats at in Afgoye district lower Shabelle Somalia. Risk factors No of animals examined No of positive Prevalence (%) Chi-square P-value Sex-Species Sheep Female 210 81 20.09% 0.463 0.496 ns Male 58 28 7.29% Goat Female 86 35 9.11% Male 30 16 5.18% Age (year) 1 year 109 44 11.46% 7.573 0.023 * 1–4 year 156 44 11.46% Greater than 4 119 72 18.75% Type of grazing Free 158 80 20.83% 8.587 0.013 * Mixed 130 64 16.67% Zero 96 16 4.17% Body condition Poor 138 68 17.71% 1.338 0.512 ns Middle 149 56 14.58% Good 97 36 9.38% *significant, p < 0.05 ns not significant DISCUSSION The recent study conducted in the region disclosed a prevalence rate of 41.67% for Haemonchus contortus in small ruminants. Specifically, the prevalence in sheep was 30.73%, while it was 10.94% in goats, indicating a persistent high rate of haemonchosis in the area. These results surpass previous reports from other regions of Somalia. For example, Abdi-Soojede reported a prevalence rate of 36.06% in blackhead sheep in the Mogadishu Benadir region (Abdi - Soojeede 2019 ). Furthermore, our study's findings are higher than Moktar et al. ( 2023 ), which documented a 23.4% prevalence rate of haemonchosis in goats in the Afgoye district, Lower Shabelle, Somalia (Moktar, Ibrahim et al. 2023). In comparison, the current findings are somewhat lower than those reported from various regions in Ethiopia. For instance, Musema Mussa documented a prevalence of 46.1% in the Mitto district (Mussa 2023 ). While Fentahun and Luke found an 80.21% prevalence in Gonder (Fentahun and Luke 2012 ). Shankute and Melauke reported a 77.38% prevalence at the Helmex-Export Abattoir (Shankute, Bogale et al. 2013). Mengist, Abebe, recorded a rate of 71.3% in and around Finoteselam (Mengist, Abebe et al. 2014). Additionally, Abebe and Agrow observed a 90.1% prevalence rate in sheep and goats slaughtered at the Haramaya municipal abattoir (Shimelis Argaw, Desta Beyene et al. 2014). Lastly, T. Endale, T. Tadele, and G. Belay reported a 67.2% prevalence at the Asella municipal abattoir (Teshome, Tolosa et al. 2020). The study's results exhibit a noteworthy disparity when contrasted with prior findings reported by Tewodros F and Girja L, who documented prevalence rates of 81.2% in sheep and 73.5% in goats in Gonder town (Fentahun and Luke 2012 ). Mulugeta T, Batu G, and Bitew B reported prevalence rates of 69.5% in sheep and 65% in goats in and around Bedelle, (Tefera Taye, Batu et al. 2011). while Haileleul documented rates of 61.63% in sheep and 54.76% in goats in and around Wolaita Soddo (N 2002 ). Furthermore, L. Workineh, B. Takele, and D. Fanta reported prevalence rates of 63.68% in sheep and 50.74% in goats at the Mojo Luna export abattoir (Workineh Legesse and Tolossa 2019). The variations in the prevalence of haemonchosis in small ruminants can be attributed to a range of factors, as highlighted by Abebe, R., Mekuria, including differences in agro-ecological conditions, husbandry practices, environmental factors, sample size, study methodologies, veterinary service coverage, and quality (Abebe, Gebreyohannes et al. 2010). This study revealed that the prevalence of H. contortus was greater in sheep than in goats, with a percentage of 30.73% in sheep and 10.73% in goats. The discrepancy between these two groups may be attributed to several factors, including the grazing habits of sheep, which tend to graze closer to the ground and therefore have more exposure to infectious larvae (L3) of H. contortus from contaminated grazing areas. In contrast, goats prefer to eat shrubs and small trees, which may lead to a lower ingestion of larvae compared to sheep. This study also found that female small ruminants were more likely to be infected with H. contortus than males, although the difference was not statistically significant (χ2 = 0.463, P = 0.496). This finding is consistent with previous research conducted in Genchi district, which reported infection rates of 90.2% in females and 82.9% in males (Emiru, Amede et al. 2013). Furthermore, studies in and around Ejere town and Gonder town reported higher infection rates in females compared to males (Olufunmilayo, Olayide et al. 2015, Bekuma and Dufera 2019 ). The susceptibility of female small ruminants to Haemonchus contortus is heightened due to their negative energy balance during lactation, which impairs their ability to fight off parasitic infections. Moreover, ewes and does experience a considerable decrease in parasite resistance during late pregnancy and shortly after giving birth due to hormonal and photoperiod effects, making them more vulnerable during the periparturient period. On the other hand, male small ruminants are frequently confined indoors for fattening during this time. Haemonchus infections can be attributed to the substantial egg production of adult females, leading to rapid larval contamination of pastures and consequent outbreaks of haemonchosis (Roeber, Jex et al. 2013) The prevalence of infection was slightly higher in sheep and goats older than 4 years (18.75%) than in those aged 1 year and 1–4 years, which both had rates of 11.46%. There was a significant association between these age groups (χ2 = 7.573, P = 0.023). The higher prevalence of haemonchosis in adults may be due to younger small ruminants being more responsive to anthelmintics, while adults might develop resistance to common treatments during seasonal changes. Further research is needed to understand the underlying causes. The research examined the prevalence of Haemonchus contortus infection based on grazing methods: free grazing resulted in the highest incidence at 20.83%, followed by mixed grazing at 16.67%, and zero grazing at 4.17%. A significant relationship was found between grazing methods and infection (χ2 = 8.587, P = 0.013). Furthermore, the study found that sheep and goats with poor body condition were more likely to have H. contortus infection, at 17.71% and 14.58%, respectively, compared to those in better condition. Animals with poor body condition are more susceptible to parasitic diseases due to their weakened immune systems. This finding aligns with the results of previous studies in Mekelle town, Bahir Dar municipal abattoir, and Jimma Horro district, which reported higher infection rates in animals with poor body condition (Negasi, Bogale et al. 2012, Moges Sewalem 2017, Dugassa, Imana et al. 2018). On the other hand, animals in good body condition have stronger immunity, which enables them to resist gastrointestinal parasites and inhibits parasite reproduction (Gizachew, Fikadu et al. 2014). CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION CONCLUSION CONCLUSION Small ruminants, for instance, sheep and goats, hold significant importance in the livestock industry, particularly in developing countries such as Somalia, where they serve as a primary source of income for the majority of the population. Nonetheless, the economic benefits derived from these animals remain restricted due to the widespread occurrence of diseases such as Haemonchus contortus, a parasitic worm that can result in substantial harm to small ruminants by causing weight loss, production loss, and even death. In our study, we discovered that the overall prevalence of haemonchosis in small ruminants was 41.67%. This parasitic infection was more prevalent in sheep, with a rate of 30.73%, than in goats, where the prevalence was 10.94%. Although this prevalence is lower than what has been documented in earlier studies from other regions of East Africa, such as Ethiopia, it still indicates a moderately high prevalence of the disease. All age and sex categories of small ruminants are susceptible to gastrointestinal parasites like Haemonchus contortus. Moreover, factors such as age, physical condition, and seasonal variations can augment the risk of infection. Other contributing factors include suboptimal animal health services, improper management, low public awareness, a more extensive host range, and year-round nutritional supplementation. To manage gastrointestinal parasites in small ruminants, it is crucial to implement control measures that reduce the parasite burden. This can be achieved by maintaining grazing fields free from animal waste and educating goat and sheep owners about the transmission and effects of these parasites on animal productivity. RECOMMENDATIONS Based on the above conclusion the following recommendations are forwarded: Rotational grazing is a crucial method to control Haemonchus parasites on pastureland. Governments or other international agencies must implement regular deworming campaigns to reduce parasite prevalence rates. Establishing a robust disease surveillance system can help detect new cases in large numbers. It is essential that animal owners have a comprehensive understanding of how to effectively control gastrointestinal parasites in both them and their animals. Providing good quality feed and clean water is vital in maintaining healthy animals. Further studies on the economic impact of haemonchosis and drug resistance patterns of anthelmintics should be conducted. Proper management of small ruminants, taking into account the peak prevalence period of haemonchosis, can significantly reduce the risk of infection. During the control and treatment of goat gastrointestinal parasites, it is important to consider age, season, and body condition as potential risk factors for the occurrence of the disease. Farmers should be assisted in forming cooperatives to facilitate the purchase of anthelmintics at affordable costs. Livestock owners should be educated about the dangers of gastrointestinal parasites during the rainy season. Separating the most susceptible young animals from adults, who may act as a potential source of infection, can prevent the spread of parasites. Declarations Authors’ contributions MOSHM the study. AMY and NAJ collected the data. MOSHM, AMY, carried out the methodology. MOSHM, AMY and NAJ performed the data analysis. MOSHM, NAJ, and NAJ drafted the manuscript. All authors edited and approved the final manuscript. Availability of data and materials Not applicable. Animal Ethics and Consent The research protocol involving animals was evaluated and sanctioned by the Ethics Committee of the Somali National University, with approval number [SNU/ANIMAL RESEARCH 26/1/2024]. All procedures involving animals were conducted in accordance with the ethical standards of the institution or practice and the relevant ethical guidelines, such as those established by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC). Funding Declaration This study did not receive any grant from any funding agency in the public, private, or non-profit sectors. CONFLICT OF INTEREST STATEMENT The authors have no competing financial interests to declare. Consent for publication Not applicable. References Abdi - Soojeede, M. (2019). "Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites of Somali Back Head Sheep (OVIS ARIES) of Wadajir and Karaan Districts in Mogadishu, Somalia." 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Adv Parasitol 93 : 1-30. Kaplan, R. M. and A. N. Vidyashankar (2012). "An inconvenient truth: global worming and anthelmintic resistance." Veterinary parasitology 186 (1-2): 70-78. Knox, D., et al. (1993). "Characterization of proteinases in extracts of adult Haemonchus contortus, the ovine abomasal nematode." Parasitology 106 (4): 395-404. Mengist, Z., et al. (2014). "Assessment of small ruminant Haemonchosis and its associated risk factors in and around Finoteselam, Ethiopia." J. Agric. Vet. Sci 7 (12): 36-41. Moges, S., et al. (2017). "Prevalence of Haemonchus contortus of sheep slaughtered at Bahir Dar municipal abattoir, Bahir city, Ethiopia." Global Veterinaria 18 (4): 269-276. Moges Sewalem, H. K., Gashaw Bassazin, Melkamu Temsegen and Sefefe Tarekegn (2017). "Prevalence of Haemonchus contortus of Sheep Slaughtered at Bahir Dar Municipal Abattoir, Bahir City, Ethiopia." Global Veterinaria 4 : 8. Mohammed, N., et al. (2016). "Epizootological study of small ruminant gastrointestinal strongyles in Gamo-Gofa Zone, Southern Ethiopia." Journal of Parasitic Diseases 40 : 469-474. Moktar, et al. (2023). "Assessment of The Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Gastrointestinal Parasite of Goats in Afgooye District, Lower Shabelle, Somalia." Journal of Applied Veterinary Science And Technology 4 : 93-99. Mussa, S. (2023). "Study on the prevalence and associated risk factors of Haemonchus contortus infection in small ruminants in Mitto district, Silte zone, Ethiopia." Journal of Veterinary Health Science 4 (1): 46-53. N, H. (2002). "Study on prevalence of GIT helminth of small ruminants in and around Woilyata Soddo,Southern Ethiopia.": P353. Negasi, W., et al. (2012). "Helminth parasites in small ruminants: prevalence, species composition and associated risk factors in and Around Mekelle Town, Northern Ethiopia." European Journal of Biological Sciences 4 (3): 91-95. Olufunmilayo, A., et al. (2015). "Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites of Goats in Ibadan, Southwest, Nigeria." World Journal of Agricultural Research 3 : 49-51. Panuska, C. (2006). "Lungworms of ruminants." Veterinary Clinics: Food Animal Practice 22 (3): 583-593. Perry, B., et al. (2002). "Investing in animal health research to alleviate poverty." International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) . Qamar, M. F., et al. (2011). "Economic losses due to haemonchosis in sheep and goats." Sci Intern 23 (4): 321-324. Roeber, F., et al. (2013). "Impact of gastrointestinal parasitic nematodes of sheep, and the role of advanced molecular tools for exploring epidemiology and drug resistance-an Australian perspective." Parasites & vectors 6 : 1-13. Santín-Durán, M., et al. (2008). "Age distribution and seasonal dynamics of abomasal helminths in wild red deer from central Spain." Journal of parasitology 94 (5): 1031-1037. Seyoum, Z., et al. (2018). "Morbidity parameters associated with gastrointestinal tract nematodes in sheep in dabat district, northwest Ethiopia." BioMed research international 2018 (1): 9247439. Shankute, G., et al. (2013). "An abattoir survey on gastrointestinal nematodes in sheep and goats in Hemex-Export abattoir, Debre Ziet, Central Ethiopia." Journal of Advanced Veterinary Research 3 (2): 60-63. Sheferaw, D., et al. (2010). "Epidemiological study of small ruminant mange mites in three agro-ecological zones of Wolaita, Southern Ethiopia." Ethiopian Veterinary Journal 14 (1): 31-38. Shimelis Argaw, S. A., et al. (2014). "Prevalence of abomasal nematodes in sheep and goats slaughtered at Haramaya municipal abattoir, eastern Hararghe, Ethiopia." Sultan, K., et al. (2010). "An abattoir study on the prevalence of some gastrointestinal helminths of sheep in Gharbia Governorate, Egypt." Global Veterinaria 5 (2): 84-87. Tariq, K., et al. (2008). "Epidemiology of gastrointestinal nematodes of sheep managed under traditional husbandry system in Kashmir valley." Veterinary parasitology 158 (1-2): 138-143. Tefera Taye, M., et al. (2011). "Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites of Sheep and Goats in and around Bedelle, South-western Ethiopia." Veterinary Research 8 : online. Teshome, E., et al. (2020). "Haemonchosis: Prevalence and Associated Risk Factor in Small Ruminant Slaughtered at Asella Municipal Abattoir." The Pavlovian journal of biological science : 93-99. Too, R., et al. (2015). "The contribution of livestock to the Somali economy." IGAD Centre for Pastoral Areas and Livestock Development (ICPALD) . Vlassoff, A. and P. McKenna (1994). "Nematode parasites of economic importance in sheep in New Zealand." New Zealand journal of zoology 21 (1): 1-8. Williams, A. R. (2011). "Immune-mediated pathology of nematode infection in sheep–is immunity beneficial to the animal?" Parasitology 138 (5): 547-556. Workineh Legesse, T. B., Fanta Desissa, Debela Taweya and and Y. H. Tolossa (2019). "Prevalence of Haemonchus Contortus in Sheep and Goats slaughtered at Modjo Luna export Abattoir, Bishoftu, Ethiopia." International Journal of Advanced Research in Biological Sciences 6 (9,2019): 7. Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Supplementary Files appendixsomeguidancepictureandsomehomonchosisegg.docx Cite Share Download PDF Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. 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Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-4624721","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Research Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":323942866,"identity":"d9eb5eee-264d-45c4-9968-885569edef05","order_by":0,"name":"Moktar Omar Sheikh Mohamed","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAA6UlEQVRIiWNgGAWjYFACNijNzP/xAZDi4SNCC2MDiOJhbzA2ANFs+JUja+E5YCaBbCtOoNvelv7g557DcvYSCWmVX3PsZNgYmB8+uoFHi9mZYwcbe54dNuaRSDh2W3ZbMtBhbMbGOfi03EhvbOA5kJbYI5HYdltyGzNQCw+bNCEtjX8OpNX3SCSzFUtuqydGS9rBZp4DNgk8PMfYGD9uO0yEljPHEmfLHLAx7DnewyzNuO04DxszIb8cbzP4+OaAhDx7Mw/jx5/bqu352ZsfPsanBQUw84BJYpWDAOMPUlSPglEwCkbBiAEAQGZHYeJuipkAAAAASUVORK5CYII=","orcid":"","institution":"Somali National University","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Moktar","middleName":"Omar Sheikh","lastName":"Mohamed","suffix":""},{"id":323942870,"identity":"e19a6cca-c1e7-4d2a-80fa-ae7a5100700a","order_by":1,"name":"Abdirahmaan Mohamad . Yasin","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Somali National University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Abdirahmaan","middleName":"Mohamad .","lastName":"Yasin","suffix":""},{"id":323942872,"identity":"ac790cbd-d4be-4f71-a039-550284a92fac","order_by":2,"name":"Naciima Ahmad . Jama","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Somali National University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Naciima","middleName":"Ahmad .","lastName":"Jama","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2024-06-23 09:53:12","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-4624721/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-4624721/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":60996188,"identity":"9f83a5db-2088-48b9-88f0-df85a926b8eb","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-07-24 12:12:42","extension":"png","order_by":1,"title":"Figure 1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":103821,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eRelative prevalence of Haemonchosis based on location in sheep and goats in Afgoye district lower Shabelle Somalia.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage1.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-4624721/v1/eed313711e4d7fd355b07990.png"},{"id":60996187,"identity":"07b273b1-aae7-495e-bc2b-98b6c9c512b1","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-07-24 12:12:41","extension":"png","order_by":2,"title":"Figure 2","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":162607,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eDistribution of test results by location\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage2.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-4624721/v1/84424376f5f7946932224f80.png"},{"id":62262263,"identity":"f408743d-b70e-4c20-8913-e9151762c529","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-08-12 08:46:31","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":1086893,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-4624721/v1/fd3315e4-94ee-49d2-a451-81072e250847.pdf"},{"id":60996190,"identity":"932f8591-854a-4d49-b6d1-64146d199b84","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2024-07-24 12:12:42","extension":"docx","order_by":1,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"supplement","size":1241459,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"appendixsomeguidancepictureandsomehomonchosisegg.docx","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-4624721/v1/ee24c7da7f75bd173b9f006b.docx"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"\u003cp\u003eAssesment of the Prevalence and Risk Factors of Haemonchus Contortus Infection of Sheep and Goat in Afgooye District, Lower Shabelle, Somalia\u003c/p\u003e","fulltext":[{"header":"Background of the Study","content":"\u003cp\u003eHaemonchus contortus, often referred to as the barber's pole worm, is a noteworthy parasitic helminth that has a significant impact on the global livestock industry, particularly affecting small ruminants, such as sheep and goats (Knox, Redmond et al. 1993, Charlier, Rinaldi et al. 2020). This nematode feeds on the blood of ruminants by penetrating the abomasum capillaries, causing substantial blood loss, anemia, and hypoproteinemia (Hoberg and Zarlenga \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e). In severe cases, infected animals may experience reduced digestive capacity, which can lead to a decline in the intake of nitrogen, organic matter, and energy, potentially resulting in death (Kaplan and Vidyashankar \u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2012\u003c/span\u003e, Besier, Kahn et al. 2016). Somalia is home to an estimated 51,899,000 livestock, with sheep and goats (36,834,000) constituting the majority, followed by camels (7.3\u0026nbsp;million). These small ruminants play a crucial role in mixed production systems, combining agro-pastoral and pastoralist agricultural techniques (Too, Masake et al. 2015).They provide essential income for the agricultural community, and their live animals, meat, and skins are significant exports (Sheferaw, Degefu et al. 2010). Small ruminants contribute to the economy by providing meat, milk, fiber, monetary income, and skin, and they are well-suited to harsh climates, consuming plants unsuitable for larger ruminants, and requiring fewer labor-intensive inputs (Fraser \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1991\u003c/span\u003e). Internal parasites are a major cause of illness and productivity loss in small ruminants, according to (Panuska \u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2006\u003c/span\u003e). Parasitic diseases are a global issue that result in reduced productivity and substantial economic losses, which disproportionately affect smallholder dairy farming communities, as noted by (Abera, Mohammed et al. 2010, Dagnachew, Amamute et al. 2011). Among the diseases that limit the survival and productivity of sheep, Haemonchus contortus infection ranks as the highest globally, as stated by (Moges, Hebtom et al. 2017). This parasite is particularly significant in small ruminant production systems in tropical and subtropical regions due to its high fecundity and short generational interval, which allow it to adapt and resist control measures, as highlighted by (Bowie \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eH. contortus is most active in warm, humid climates during the summer months, and adult worms inhabit the abdominal mucosa of sheep, feeding on their blood. Compared to other gastrointestinal nematodes, Haemonchus is the most critical parasite of domestic ruminants, particularly sheep and goats, as indicated by (Perry, Randolph et al. 2002). If left untreated, haemonchosis can result in protein deficiency, anemia, bottle jaw (swelling of the lower jaw due to anemia), digestive disturbances, and death, as noted by (Williams \u003cspan citationid=\"CR45\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2011\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe abomasum is an essential site for bursate nematodes belonging to the Trichostrongylidae family in small ruminants, including Haemonchus spp., Teladorsagia spp., Ostertagia spp., and Trichostrongylus spp. These gastrointestinal nematodes can harm health, cause mortalities, weight loss, and other production losses (Vlassoff and McKenna \u003cspan citationid=\"CR44\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1994\u003c/span\u003e, Sultan, Desoukey et al. 2010).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSmall ruminants, such as sheep and goats, are essential for family stability, providing meat, milk, skin, wool, cash income, and fulfilling traditional social and religious roles. Haemonchus contortus, a blood-feeding nematode parasitizing the abomasum, significantly impacts ovine production, particularly in areas with predominantly summer rainfall (Sant\u0026iacute;n-Dur\u0026aacute;n, Alunda et al. 2008). H. contortus is highly pathogenic, causing anemia, reduced productivity, and death in infected animals (Burke, Kaplan et al. 2007). Gastrointestinal nematode infection ranks highest on a global index for diseases affecting ovine and goats, with Barber's pole worm being critically important (Perry, Randolph et al. 2002).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eInternal parasitic infection impacts are significant in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Ethiopia, due to appropriate agro-ecological conditions for various hosts and intestinal parasitic species (Mohammed, Taye et al. 2016). Despite the high population of small ruminants, the quality and quantity of their products are suboptimal due to gastrointestinal parasites like H. contortus, causing anemia, reduced fertility, economic losses through reduced productivity, and increased mortality in severely infected sheep and goats (Qamar, Maqbool et al. 2011, Seyoum, Getnet et al. 2018). The disease caused by Haemonchus contortus is due to the host's inability to compensate for blood loss, resulting in significant economic losses, particularly in tropical and temperate regions (Chaudary, Khan et al. 2007).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis parasitic disease has also been found in colder climates, extending as far north as the Arctic Circle (Durrani, Kamal et al. 2007). The primary causes of economic losses include mortality, decreased production, stunted growth, poor weight gain, and poor feed utilization (Tariq, Chishti et al. 2008). The high morbidity, mortality, and cost of treatment and control measures contribute to the lower production levels (Tariq, Chishti et al. 2008).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eParasitic diseases, including Haemonchus contortus, are major constraints on livestock health and productivity worldwide (Abera, Mohammed et al. 2010). H. contortus causes several harmful effects, such as growth retardation, low productivity, loss of appetite, decreased protein levels, impaired digestion, and poor reproductive performance, which ultimately lead to reduced meat and wool production (Abera, Mohammed et al. 2010). Unfortunately, the lack of thorough parasitological research and documentation in Somalia impedes the development of effective control programs for Haemonchus contortus infections. This study aims to address these gaps by examining the prevalence and risk factors of Haemonchus contortus infection in sheep and goats in Afgoye, Lower Shabelle, Somalia.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Methodology","content":"\u003cp\u003eA cross-sectional investigation was conducted from September 2023 to February 2024 to determine the prevalence and potential risk factors of Haemonchus contortus infection in sheep and goats. The researchers assessed and documented the animals' age, sex, and body condition prior to collecting samples.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eTarget Population\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe research was conducted on a group of 384 sheep and goats living in the Afgoye district of the Lower Shabelle Region. The sample included animals of various ages and genders, ensuring comprehensive representation.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec4\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eStudy Area\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe research was conducted in the Lower Shabelle Region, with a particular emphasis on the villages located within the Afgoye district. Afgoye, situated in southwestern Somalia, is the third-largest city in the Southwest State and one of the oldest towns in the Lower Shabelle valley. The climate of the region is characterized by a hot and arid environment year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 26 to 28 degrees Celsius, as stated by Muchiri (2007). The temperature variations between the warmest months (December to March) and the coolest months (July and August) are minimal; however, these fluctuations are more pronounced inland when compared to the coast. During August, temperatures can decrease to 16 degrees Celsius, as indicated by Luling (2002).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec5\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eSample Size Determination and Sampling Procedure\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe expected prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in sheep and goats in the study area was assumed to be 50%. The sample size was calculated using the formula provided by Thrusfield (2005), with a 95% confidence interval and a 5% desired level of precision:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eN \u003cb\u003e=\u003c/b\u003e \u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\frac{\\mathbf{Z} \u0026sup2; \\left(\\mathbf{P}\\mathbf{e}\\mathbf{x}\\mathbf{p}\\right)(1-\\mathbf{P}\\mathbf{e}\\mathbf{x}\\mathbf{p})}{\\mathbf{d}\u0026sup2;}\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e \u003cb\u003e=\u003c/b\u003e \u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\frac{\\left({1.96}^{2}\\right)0.5(1-0.5)}{(0.5)\u0026sup2;}\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e = 384\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eN= [1.962 Pexp (1-Pexp)]/d2 Where: N\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;sample size; Pexp\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;expected prevalence. D\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Desired absolute precision; Нen by taking Pexp\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;50% and d\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;5% N\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;1.962 \u0026times; 0.5 (1- 0.50)/0.05; N\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;384\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec6\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eCollection of Fecal Samples\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eFecal specimens were collected from the rectums of each sheep and goat using disposable gloves designed for protection. These specimens were placed in labeled containers, which were marked with the animal's age, sex, place of origin, and date of collection. To prevent cross-contamination, separate containers and gloves were used for each specimen, and the specimens were kept on ice before being transported to the Veterinary and Animal Science Laboratory at the Somali National Laboratory for parasitological analysis.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec7\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eExamination and Identification of Parasites\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eSamples were promptly conveyed to the laboratory for examination through the application of direct smear and flotation methods to identify ova or larvae of parasites. The materials utilized comprised gloves, pens, paper, lab coats, slides, tubes, cover slips, and saturated solutions. The parasitological examination was executed with remarkable efficiency and precision, guaranteeing precise outcomes.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eDirect Smear Method\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eA thin smear was prepared by spreading a small amount of feces on a clean, grease-free slide, which was then examined under a microscope at low power (10X) as described by Soulsby18.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec9\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eFlotation Method\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis method, commonly employed for detecting nematode and cestode eggs, entails combining nearly 3 grams of fecal sample with 15 milliliters of water, lightly grinding the mixture, and filtering it through a tea strainer. The resulting filtrate is then centrifuged at 1000 revolutions per minute for five minutes, followed by the replacement of the solution with saturated sodium chloride. The mixture is centrifuged once again, and a cover slip is placed on the resulting convex surface, which is removed after a few minutes and examined under a microscope at both 10X and 40X magnifications. Photographs are then taken of any cysts, eggs, or parasites present, which are identified based on their color, shape, and size.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec10\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eData Analysis\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eRaw data from the selected areas and laboratory examinations were entered into a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. The data were analyzed using the R programming language. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the prevalence of parasites and associated risk factors (age, sex, body condition, and health status), and statistical analysis was performed using percentage calculations and Chi-square tests.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec11\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eEthical Considerations\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eEthical considerations were paramount in this study. Researchers ensured the confidentiality and privacy of respondents, with unpublished data kept strictly for academic purposes. Preliminary contact was made with farmers and animal owners, either by phone or in person, to explain the study's objectives and obtain informed consent.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"RESULTS AND DISCUSSION","content":"\n\u003ch3\u003eRESULTS\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec14\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eOverall Prevalence of Haemonchosis\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn the present investigation, a total of 384 sheep and goats were assessed for the presence of Haemonchosis. The results revealed that 160 of the animals were positive, while 224 were negative, indicating an overall prevalence rate of 41.67% (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOverall Relative prevalence of Haemonchosis in sheep and goats at in Afgoye district lower Shabelle Somalia.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTotal animals examined\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo positive\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo negative\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePrevalence%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e384\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e160\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e224\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e41.67%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec15\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eRelative prevalence of Haemonchosis on the basis of sheep and goat species\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe relative prevalence of Haemonchosis, a parasitic condition, in two different species: sheep and goats. In the study, a total of 246 sheep were examined, with 118 of them testing positive for Haemonchosis, resulting in a prevalence rate of 30.73%. Similarly, 138 goats were examined, and 42 of them were found to be positive, indicating a prevalence rate of 10.94% (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e). There was no significance difference between sheep and goat occurring on Haemonchosis (χ2\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;2.235, P\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.135).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRelative prevalence of Haemonchosis on the basis of sheep and goats species in Afgoye district lower Shabelle Somalia.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"6\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSpecies\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo of animals examined\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo of positive\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePrevalence (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eChi-square\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eP-value\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSheep\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e246\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e118\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e30.73%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.235\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.135\u003csup\u003ens\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eGoat\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e138\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e42\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.94%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTotal\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e384\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e160\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e41.67%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"6\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e*Significant, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05 ns not significant\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe graph below illustrates that the distribution of test results, in terms of the ratio of negative to positive outcomes, differs between the goat and sheep species. Goats show a more skewed distribution towards negative results compared to sheep (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec16\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eRelative prevalence of Haemonchosis based on location in sheep and goats\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn the study, presences of prevalence rate of Haemonchosis based on location in sheep and goats within the Afgoye district of Lower Shabelle, Somalia. In Markazka: Out of 80 animals examined, 36 tested positive for Haemonchosis, resulting in a prevalence rate of 9.38%. In Jambalul: Among the 72 animals examined, 40 tested positive, leading to a prevalence rate of 10.42%. In If iyo aqiro: Within the 68 animals examined, 33 tested positive, resulting in a prevalence rate of 8.59%. In Buulalow: Out of 60 animals examined in this location, 32 tested positive, indicating a prevalence rate of 8.33%. In Beeruxa: Among the 53 animals examined, only 3 tested positive for Haemonchosis, resulting in a low prevalence rate of 0.78%. In Carbiska: Within the 30 animals examined, 12 tested positive for Haemonchosis, yielding a prevalence rate of 3.13% and Afgoye: Out of 21 animals examined, 4 tested positive for Haemonchosis, resulting in a prevalence rate of 1.04% (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e). The chi-square result indicated there was no significance difference between the locations (χ2\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;11.324, P\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.079).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab3\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 3\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRelative prevalence of Haemonchosis based on location in sheep and goats within the Afgoye district of Lower Shabelle, Somalia\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"6\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLocations\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo of animals examined\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo of positive\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePrevalence (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eChi-square\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eP-value\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMarkazka\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e80\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e36\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.38%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.324\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.079\u003csup\u003ens\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eJambalul\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e72\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e40\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.42%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eIf iyo Aakhiro\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e68\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e33\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.59%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBuulalow\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e60\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e32\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.33%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBayru ruuxa\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e53\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.78%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCarbiska\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e30\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.13%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAfgoye\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.04%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTotal\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e384\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e160\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e41.67%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"6\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e*significant, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05ns not significant\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe graph below shows the distribution of test results, classified as negative or positive, across various geographic areas. Afgoye has the most dramatic asymmetry, with a much higher number of negative results than positive. Markazka shows a more appropriate mix of negative and positive test results. The remaining places have varied levels of difference between negative and positive test results (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eHaemonchosis and its risk factors.\u003c/b\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec17\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eRisk Factor: Sex\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn sheep, 210 females were examined, 81 of them were positive and their prevalence rate was 20.09%. Among males, 58 male sheep were examined, 28 of them were positive and their prevalence was 7.29%. In goat, 86 females were examined, 35 of them were positive and their prevalence was 9.11%. Similarly, in males goats 30 males were examined, 16 of them were positive and there prevalence was 5.18% (as shown as Table\u0026nbsp;4). There was no significance difference between male and female (χ2\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.463, P\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.496)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec18\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eRisk Factor: Age (year)\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003e1 year: Within the 109 animals examined that were 1 year old, 44 tested positive for Haemonchosis, resulting in a prevalence rate of 11.46%. 1\u0026ndash;4 years: Among the 156 animals examined in the age range of 1\u0026ndash;4 years, 44 tested positive, yielding a prevalence rate of 11.46%. The chi-square value and p-value for this age group are not specified. Greater than 4 years: Out of th 119 animals examined that were older than 4 years, 72 tested positive for Haemonchosis, indicating a prevalence rate of 18.75% (as shown as Table\u0026nbsp;4). There was significance association between age groups (χ2\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;7.573, P\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.023).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec19\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eRisk Factor: Type of grazing Free:\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eAmong the 158 animals examined in free grazing conditions, 80 tested positive for Haemonchosis, resulting in a prevalence rate of 20.83%. Mixed: Within the 130 animals examined in mixed grazing conditions, 64 tested positive, leading to a prevalence rate of 16.67%.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eZero: Out of the 96 animals examined in zero grazing conditions, 16 tested positive for Haemonchosis, yielding a prevalence rate of 4.17% (as shown as Table\u0026nbsp;4). There was significance association between type of grazing (χ2\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;8.587, P\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.013).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec20\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eRisk Factor: Body condition\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003ePoor: Within the 138 animals examined with poor body condition, 68 tested positive for Haemonchosis, resulting in a prevalence rate of 17.71%. Middle: Among the 149 animals examined with average body condition, 56 tested positive, indicating a prevalence rate of 14.58%. Good: Out of the 97 animals examined with good body condition, 36 tested positive for Haemonchosis, resulting in a prevalence rate of 9.38% (as shown as Table\u0026nbsp;4). There was no significance association in body condition (χ2\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;1.338, P\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.512).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab4\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRelative prevalence of Haemonchosis based on risks factors in sheep and goats at in Afgoye district lower Shabelle Somalia.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"6\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRisk factors\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo of animals examined\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo of positive\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePrevalence (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eChi-square\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eP-value\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"6\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSex-Species\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"6\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSheep\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFemale\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e210\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e81\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e20.09%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.463\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.496\u003csup\u003ens\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMale\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e58\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e28\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.29%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eGoat\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFemale\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e86\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e35\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.11%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMale\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e30\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.18%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"6\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAge (year)\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1 year\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e109\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e44\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.46%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.573\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.023\u003csup\u003e*\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1\u0026ndash;4 year\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e156\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e44\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.46%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGreater than 4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e119\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e72\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e18.75%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"6\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eType of grazing\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e158\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e80\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e20.83%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.587\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.013\u003csup\u003e*\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMixed\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e130\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e64\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e16.67%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eZero\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e96\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.17%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"6\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBody condition\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePoor\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e138\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e68\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e17.71%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.338\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.512\u003csup\u003ens\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMiddle\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e149\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e56\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e14.58%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGood\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e97\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e36\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.38%\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"6\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e*significant, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ens not significant\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDISCUSSION\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe recent study conducted in the region disclosed a prevalence rate of 41.67% for Haemonchus contortus in small ruminants. Specifically, the prevalence in sheep was 30.73%, while it was 10.94% in goats, indicating a persistent high rate of haemonchosis in the area. These results surpass previous reports from other regions of Somalia. For example, Abdi-Soojede reported a prevalence rate of 36.06% in blackhead sheep in the Mogadishu Benadir region (Abdi - Soojeede \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). Furthermore, our study's findings are higher than Moktar et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e), which documented a 23.4% prevalence rate of haemonchosis in goats in the Afgoye district, Lower Shabelle, Somalia (Moktar, Ibrahim et al. 2023).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn comparison, the current findings are somewhat lower than those reported from various regions in Ethiopia. For instance, Musema Mussa documented a prevalence of 46.1% in the Mitto district (Mussa \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). While Fentahun and Luke found an 80.21% prevalence in Gonder (Fentahun and Luke \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2012\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eShankute and Melauke reported a 77.38% prevalence at the Helmex-Export Abattoir (Shankute, Bogale et al. 2013). Mengist, Abebe, recorded a rate of 71.3% in and around Finoteselam (Mengist, Abebe et al. 2014). Additionally, Abebe and Agrow observed a 90.1% prevalence rate in sheep and goats slaughtered at the Haramaya municipal abattoir (Shimelis Argaw, Desta Beyene et al. 2014). Lastly, T. Endale, T. Tadele, and G. Belay reported a 67.2% prevalence at the Asella municipal abattoir (Teshome, Tolosa et al. 2020).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe study's results exhibit a noteworthy disparity when contrasted with prior findings reported by Tewodros F and Girja L, who documented prevalence rates of 81.2% in sheep and 73.5% in goats in Gonder town (Fentahun and Luke \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2012\u003c/span\u003e). Mulugeta T, Batu G, and Bitew B reported prevalence rates of 69.5% in sheep and 65% in goats in and around Bedelle, (Tefera Taye, Batu et al. 2011). while Haileleul documented rates of 61.63% in sheep and 54.76% in goats in and around Wolaita Soddo (N \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2002\u003c/span\u003e). Furthermore, L. Workineh, B. Takele, and D. Fanta reported prevalence rates of 63.68% in sheep and 50.74% in goats at the Mojo Luna export abattoir (Workineh Legesse and Tolossa 2019).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe variations in the prevalence of haemonchosis in small ruminants can be attributed to a range of factors, as highlighted by Abebe, R., Mekuria, including differences in agro-ecological conditions, husbandry practices, environmental factors, sample size, study methodologies, veterinary service coverage, and quality (Abebe, Gebreyohannes et al. 2010).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis study revealed that the prevalence of H. contortus was greater in sheep than in goats, with a percentage of 30.73% in sheep and 10.73% in goats. The discrepancy between these two groups may be attributed to several factors, including the grazing habits of sheep, which tend to graze closer to the ground and therefore have more exposure to infectious larvae (L3) of H. contortus from contaminated grazing areas. In contrast, goats prefer to eat shrubs and small trees, which may lead to a lower ingestion of larvae compared to sheep. This study also found that female small ruminants were more likely to be infected with H. contortus than males, although the difference was not statistically significant (χ2\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.463, P\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.496).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis finding is consistent with previous research conducted in Genchi district, which reported infection rates of 90.2% in females and 82.9% in males (Emiru, Amede et al. 2013). Furthermore, studies in and around Ejere town and Gonder town reported higher infection rates in females compared to males (Olufunmilayo, Olayide et al. 2015, Bekuma and Dufera \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe susceptibility of female small ruminants to Haemonchus contortus is heightened due to their negative energy balance during lactation, which impairs their ability to fight off parasitic infections. Moreover, ewes and does experience a considerable decrease in parasite resistance during late pregnancy and shortly after giving birth due to hormonal and photoperiod effects, making them more vulnerable during the periparturient period. On the other hand, male small ruminants are frequently confined indoors for fattening during this time. Haemonchus infections can be attributed to the substantial egg production of adult females, leading to rapid larval contamination of pastures and consequent outbreaks of haemonchosis (Roeber, Jex et al. 2013)\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe prevalence of infection was slightly higher in sheep and goats older than 4 years (18.75%) than in those aged 1 year and 1\u0026ndash;4 years, which both had rates of 11.46%. There was a significant association between these age groups (χ2\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;7.573, P\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.023). The higher prevalence of haemonchosis in adults may be due to younger small ruminants being more responsive to anthelmintics, while adults might develop resistance to common treatments during seasonal changes. Further research is needed to understand the underlying causes.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe research examined the prevalence of Haemonchus contortus infection based on grazing methods: free grazing resulted in the highest incidence at 20.83%, followed by mixed grazing at 16.67%, and zero grazing at 4.17%. A significant relationship was found between grazing methods and infection (χ2\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;8.587, P\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.013).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFurthermore, the study found that sheep and goats with poor body condition were more likely to have H. contortus infection, at 17.71% and 14.58%, respectively, compared to those in better condition. Animals with poor body condition are more susceptible to parasitic diseases due to their weakened immune systems. This finding aligns with the results of previous studies in Mekelle town, Bahir Dar municipal abattoir, and Jimma Horro district, which reported higher infection rates in animals with poor body condition (Negasi, Bogale et al. 2012, Moges Sewalem 2017, Dugassa, Imana et al. 2018). On the other hand, animals in good body condition have stronger immunity, which enables them to resist gastrointestinal parasites and inhibits parasite reproduction (Gizachew, Fikadu et al. 2014).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec22\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003eCONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION\u003c/h2\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"CONCLUSION","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCONCLUSION\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall ruminants, for instance, sheep and goats, hold significant importance in the livestock industry, particularly in developing countries such as Somalia, where they serve as a primary source of income for the majority of the population. Nonetheless, the economic benefits derived from these animals remain restricted due to the widespread occurrence of diseases such as Haemonchus contortus, a parasitic worm that can result in substantial harm to small ruminants by causing weight loss, production loss, and even death.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn our study, we discovered that the overall prevalence of haemonchosis in small ruminants was 41.67%. This parasitic infection was more prevalent in sheep, with a rate of 30.73%, than in goats, where the prevalence was 10.94%. Although this prevalence is lower than what has been documented in earlier studies from other regions of East Africa, such as Ethiopia, it still indicates a moderately high prevalence of the disease.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll age and sex categories of small ruminants are susceptible to gastrointestinal parasites like Haemonchus contortus. Moreover, factors such as age, physical condition, and seasonal variations can augment the risk of infection. Other contributing factors include suboptimal animal health services, improper management, low public awareness, a more extensive host range, and year-round nutritional supplementation.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo manage gastrointestinal parasites in small ruminants, it is crucial to implement control measures that reduce the parasite burden. This can be achieved by maintaining grazing fields free from animal waste and educating goat and sheep owners about the transmission and effects of these parasites on animal productivity.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRECOMMENDATIONS\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBased on the above conclusion the following recommendations are forwarded:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col start=\"1\" style=\"list-style-type: lower-alpha;\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eRotational grazing is a crucial method to control Haemonchus parasites on pastureland. Governments or other international agencies must implement regular deworming campaigns to reduce parasite prevalence rates.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eEstablishing a robust disease surveillance system can help detect new cases in large numbers.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eIt is essential that animal owners have a comprehensive understanding of how to effectively control gastrointestinal parasites in both them and their animals. Providing good quality feed and clean water is vital in maintaining healthy animals.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eFurther studies on the economic impact of haemonchosis and drug resistance patterns of anthelmintics should be conducted. Proper management of small ruminants, taking into account the peak prevalence period of haemonchosis, can significantly reduce the risk of infection.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eDuring the control and treatment of goat gastrointestinal parasites, it is important to consider age, season, and body condition as potential risk factors for the occurrence of the disease. Farmers should be assisted in forming cooperatives to facilitate the purchase of anthelmintics at affordable costs.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eLivestock owners should be educated about the dangers of gastrointestinal parasites during the rainy season.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eSeparating the most susceptible young animals from adults, who may act as a potential source of infection, can prevent the spread of parasites.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthors\u0026rsquo; contributions\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMOSHM the study. AMY and NAJ collected the data. MOSHM, AMY, carried out the methodology. MOSHM, AMY and NAJ performed the data analysis. MOSHM, NAJ, and NAJ drafted the manuscript. All authors edited and approved the final manuscript.\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAvailability of data and materials\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnimal Ethics and Consent\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe research protocol involving animals was evaluated and sanctioned by the Ethics Committee of the Somali National University, with approval number [SNU/ANIMAL RESEARCH 26/1/2024]. All procedures involving animals were conducted in accordance with the ethical standards of the institution or practice and the relevant ethical guidelines, such as those established by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding Declaration\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis study did not receive any grant from any funding agency in the public, private, or non-profit sectors.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCONFLICT OF INTEREST STATEMENT\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors have no competing financial interests to declare.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConsent for publication\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eAbdi - Soojeede, M. 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(2020). \u0026quot;Haemonchosis: Prevalence and Associated Risk Factor in Small Ruminant Slaughtered at Asella Municipal Abattoir.\u0026quot; \u003cu\u003eThe Pavlovian journal of biological science\u003c/u\u003e: 93-99.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eToo, R., et al. (2015). \u0026quot;The contribution of livestock to the Somali economy.\u0026quot; \u003cu\u003eIGAD Centre for Pastoral Areas and Livestock Development (ICPALD)\u003c/u\u003e.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eVlassoff, A. and P. McKenna (1994). \u0026quot;Nematode parasites of economic importance in sheep in New Zealand.\u0026quot; \u003cu\u003eNew Zealand journal of zoology\u003c/u\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e21\u003c/strong\u003e(1): 1-8.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eWilliams, A. R. (2011). \u0026quot;Immune-mediated pathology of nematode infection in sheep\u0026ndash;is immunity beneficial to the animal?\u0026quot; \u003cu\u003eParasitology\u003c/u\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e138\u003c/strong\u003e(5): 547-556.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eWorkineh Legesse, T. B., Fanta Desissa, Debela Taweya and and Y. H. Tolossa (2019). \u0026quot;Prevalence of Haemonchus Contortus in Sheep and Goats\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eslaughtered at Modjo Luna export Abattoir, Bishoftu, Ethiopia.\u0026quot; \u003cu\u003eInternational Journal of Advanced Research in Biological Sciences\u003c/u\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e6\u003c/strong\u003e(9,2019): 7.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Haemonchosis, Prevalence, Small Ruminants, Afgoye, Somali","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-4624721/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-4624721/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBackground\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaemonchus contributes considerably to the economic losses incurred in the rearing of small ruminants in developing countries, impacting both small and large-scale operations. This parasitic nematode is widespread in tropical and subtropical regions, resulting in substantial losses in production, impaired growth, and elevated mortality rates among the young animals.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethods\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA cross-sectional investigation was implemented in seven villages situated in the Afgoye district, Lower Shabelle, Somalia, between September 2023 and February 2024. During this period, 384 fecal samples from small ruminants were obtained and examined using direct smear and flotation techniques to determine the occurrence and risk factors of haemonchosis in sheep and goats.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResults\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study's results demonstrated a substantial prevalence of Haemonchus contortus among the animals, with a total of 41.67% being infected. Specifically, the infection rate was 30.73% for sheep (246/384) and 10.94% for goats (138/384), with no statistically significant difference between the two species (χ²=2.235, P=0.135). The higher rate of infection in sheep may be due to their grazing habits, which involve feeding closer to the ground and increased exposure to infective larvae (L3). Additionally, variations in feeding behaviors between sheep and goats were also observed.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSheep and goats in the Afgooye district of the Lower Shabelle region in Somalia were examined for haemonchosis. In female sheep, 20.09% tested positive for the condition, while in male sheep, 7.29% showed positive results. For goats, 9.11% of females and 5.18% of males were infected, with no observable gender-based difference. Animals aged over four years had a slightly higher infection rate of 18.75%, compared to those aged 1-4 years (11.46%) and under one year (11.46%), indicating a significant age-related correlation.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe influence of body condition on infection rates was not found to be significant. However, animals in middle and poor condition exhibited higher rates of infection at 17.71% and 14.58%, respectively, compared to those in good condition at 9.38%. Additionally, the grazing practices employed had an impact on the prevalence of the infection, with animals that were allowed to free-graze showing a higher prevalence rate of 20.83%, compared to those engaged in mixed grazing at 16.67% and zero grazing at 4.17%.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConclusions\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis research offers essential insights into haemonchosis in sheep and goats in Afgoye, which can be used to develop effective farm management practices. The findings particularly highlight the importance of parasite control and eradication strategies to mitigate the impact of haemonchosis on small ruminant production.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Assesment of the Prevalence and Risk Factors of Haemonchus Contortus Infection of Sheep and Goat in Afgooye District, Lower Shabelle, Somalia","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2024-07-24 12:12:37","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-4624721/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"b3430116-ae79-4e9f-a5b4-b9fee8807d70","owner":[],"postedDate":"July 24th, 2024","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2024-08-12T08:38:23+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2024-07-24 12:12:37","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-4624721","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-4624721","identity":"rs-4624721","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"qtupq5eGEP_6zYnWcrvyt","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}