Anthelminthic resistance in cooperia and trichostrongylus species to albendazole 2.5% in selected cattle reared in Bugiri district, eastern Uganda

Abstract

Anthelmintic resistance is an increasing devastating phenomenon resulting from the over 87.8% of anthelmintic drugs. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the existence of AR of GIT nematiodes (Cooperia spp and Trichostrongylus spp) amomg the cattle reared in Bugiri Municipality. Risk factors associated to resistance were also evaluated. Fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT) showed 56.2% AR in Cooperia spp and trichostrongylus respectively over a 14 days’ period When treated with albendazole 2.5%, the mean ±SD egg per gram(EPG) was 1063±10.5 and 1316±90.69 for Cooperia species and 645.0±104.5 and 937.5±121.1 at day 0 and day 14 after treatment. Method of helminth control, herd size, knowledge about AR and presence of helmiths infestations were significantly associated to AR with P value 0.043. The existence of AR as revealed in this study needs immediate attention by the responsible parties. There is need for appropriate use of anthelimintic drugs integrated with pasture management and educating farmers on how best they can control and prevent Anthelmintic resistance.