Gastrointestinal parasitic load of sheep in selected abattoirs in Imo State

Gastrointestinal parasites constitute one of the major health challenges affecting the productivity of the animals. This study was aimed at determining the gastrointestinal parasitic load of sheep in selected abattoirs in Imo State. A total of 120 feacal samples of male and female sheep were collected. The samples were prepared using sedimentation and floatation techniques. 62.10% of gastrointestinal parasites were identified in sheep (Obinze 32.36%, Osina 15.74% and Orieagu 13.99%). The highest parasitic load was recorded for Fasciola spp. (26.7%) followed by Strongyle spp. (16.04%). Female sheep were at higher risk of infection with the gastrointestinal parasites. The study also revealed a high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasite in sheep in the study areas. Therefore, proper understanding of the epidemiology of the parasite is a prerequisite for the design of effective prevention and control programs to boost live stocks production, increase source of animal protein to humans and alleviate poverty.