Prevalence of Equine Strongyloidiasis and associated risk factors in Guder, Ethiopia

Background: Equine strongyloidiasis is a widespread parasitic infection that poses a substantial health challenge to equine populations worldwide. This disease adversely affects animal welfare and incurs considerable economic losses, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas of Ethiopia. This study aims to determine the prevalence of Equine Strongyloidiasis and to identify the associated risk factors in and around Guder. Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken from April to June 2018. A total of 420 equines were randomly selected based on species, age, body condition, altitude, and clinical history. Fecal samples were collected and examined for the presence of Strongyle eggs using standard parasitological techniques. Results: The overall prevalence of Strongyloidiasis was found to be 73.3%, with donkeys exhibiting the highest infection rate (80%), followed by mules (69.5%) and horses (57.1%); however, differences among species were not statistically significant. The prevalence in female equines (65%) was higher than in males (35%), though this difference was not significant. Similarly, infection rates between young (75%) and adult (72.7%) animals did not differ significantly. Body condition showed a strong association with infection, as animals in poor condition had a significantly higher prevalence (96.5%) compared to those in medium (75%) and good (26.6%) condition. Additionally, draft equines had a significantly greater prevalence (80.9%) than transport equines (55.5%). Conclusion: The observed results emphasize the necessity for targeted interventions aimed at enhancing animal health and management to effectively reduce the burden of strongyle infections. Therefore, it is essential to implement regular deworming programs, especially for equines with poor body condition and those used for draft purposes, along with improving nutrition and management practices. Moreover, raising awareness among owners about risk factors and encouraging proper pasture management are important. Further studies over different seasons are necessary to better understand infection patterns, and stronger cooperation between veterinary services and communities is needed to enhance diagnosis and treatment.