Prevalence of liver fluke infections in domestic animals from district Mardan. A retrospective population-based study from Pakistan

Fascioliasis is a major problem and poses serious threat to livestock resulting in mortality and economic losses to livestock industry. The liver flukes must be observed as an emergent health threat due to the increasing number of human cases. The present study was undertaken to ascertain the existence of liver flukes’ infection among animals in Mardan. About 125 samples were examined, these fecal samples were then preserved in the plastic polythene bags having 10% formalin solution with proper labeling and were examined in laboratory under microscope for detection of liver fluke. The infection rate of Fascioliasis is 12% in bulls and 11% in male buffaloes, compared to 18% in cows and 15% in female buffaloes. Both genders graze in the same fields, exposing them equally to infective larvae. However, infection rates are slightly higher in females than males. The higher infection prevalence during the monsoon season (June, July, and August), was observed. This is likely due to heavy rainfall creating optimal temperatures and moisture levels that encourage parasite growth. High infection rates in calves and buffalo babies (19.05% and 23.08%, respectively) due to their weaker immunity, making them more susceptible to disease. It is concluded that heavy infection is present in Mardan. The infection rate was 15.2%. Fascioliasis infection rates are higher in females and peak during monsoon season, with young animals most susceptible due to weaker immunity. Recommendations include targeted deworming, enhanced monitoring during monsoons, improved pasture management, and immunity-boosting measures for young livestock.