Investigation of mesoparasites in cattle in the wilaya of Laghouat in southern Algeria (Algeria)

Mesoparasites are responsible for diseases that cause economic losses and are capable of spreading to humans. In addition, some pose a public health problem in Algeria and in many countries. For that, the present work aims to study parasitoses in cattle in a steppe region of Algeria (Laghouat). For this, a survey was carried out in three sites (Brida, Hadj mecheri and Taouiala) in the Laghouat region. In total, 100 cattle belonging to 17 breeders were examined for endoparasites, by carrying out different types of examinations (clinical examination, sampling of feces, filling out information sheets for breeders and animals). The results showed that 67 subjects were found infested with mesoparasites which were distributed as follows: Cryptosporidium spp. (45%); Ostertagia spp. (35%); Eimeria spp. (29%); Trichostrongylus spp. (25%); Strongyloides spp. (23%); Marshallagia spp (13%); Toxocara spp. (6%); Fasciola spp. (3%); and Giardia spp. (3%). The Hadj Mecheri site had the highest prevalence rate (31%). The statistical analysis for mesoparasites, none of the factors studied significantly influenced the rate of infestation by these parasites. These results reflect the risk posed by mesoparasites to cattle and public health. This requires the implementation of a disease control and awareness program among breeders in order to avoid various accidents and significant economic losses. In addition, early diagnosis of parasitoses helps preserve the health of cattle and consumers subsequently.