Prevalence and Risk Factors of Bovine Babesiosis in Kiltu Kara District, West Wallaga Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia

Babesiosis is an important protozoan parasite that causes infections in humans as well as in animals.A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2020 to April 2021 in Kiltu Kara district, West Wallaga Zone, West Ethiopia.Blood samples were collected from 384 cattle and the prevalence of Babesia species was determined using Giemsastained blood smears.Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate the relationship between infection rates and factors, such as age, sex, body condition and tick infestation.The overall prevalence of bovine babesiosis was 18.5% (71/384), with higher rates observed in adult (20.42%) and old (33.33%) cattle compared to young animals (8.39%).Female cattle had a higher prevalence (19.9%) than males (16.94%).A significant association was found between tick infestation (27.39% infected) and Babesia infection ( = 26.83,P < 0.05).Two species were identified: Babesia bovis (10.68%) and Babesia bigemina (7.81%).The study highlights a notable prevalence of bovine babesiosis in the Kiltu Kara district, with older and tick-infested cattle being more susceptible to infection.These findings underscore the need for enhanced surveillance, effective tick control measures and further research to mitigate the impact of this disease on livestock productivity in the region.