| dc.description.abstract | Haemoparasites of small ruminants like goats reduce their productivity and could lead to high mortality. However, information on the prevalence of haemoparasites in goats in Biharwe division, Mbarara district is scarce. This study therefore, aimed at determining the prevalence of haemoparasites in goats in this area based on the parasite species, sex, and age. Hundred blood samples were collected from 100 goats from randomly selected farms in four parishes before examined for haemoparasites, using standard parasitological techniques. Overall, 30 of the 100 sample were infected with only Anaplasma species, and the 70 had none of the haemoparasites. Of these, infections occurred in Kishasha, Migamba, Nyabuhama, and Rwenjeru parishes with infectivity rate of 36%, 40%, 24%, and 20%, respectively. Of the 30 infected goats, 31.03% were females and 23.08% were males. Based on age, 23.08%, 28.57%, and 35.48% were young males, adult female, and young females respectively, with the highest prevalence in young females. There was no significant difference in rate of infectivity based on sex; (P-value = 0.0002 for females and P=0.0261 for males). While on the other hand, age revealed a statistically significant difference on infectivity, being more in young females (P = 0.0530). Kishasha and Migamba parishes had, infective rates that were statistically significant (P=0.08 and P=0.1587 respectively). The Ripicephalus (Boophilus) spp, were the most abundant tick species. It can be concluded from this study that Anaplasma species is endemic in goats in Biharwe division, Mbarara district. Therefore, quarantine measures and improved veterinary services are recommended in the district to prevent the constant mediation and anticipated outbreak of anaplasmosis mediated by goats. | en_US |
