Occurrence of gastrointestinal helminths in small ruminants at slaughter in Fako Division, South West Region, Cameroon

Abstract Background Gastrointestinal helminths (GIH) are a leading cause of production losses in small ruminants across sub-Saharan Africa, yet baseline epidemiological data are limited. The primary aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of GIH and the parasite genera detected composition in sheep and goats across the Fako Division of the South West Region of Cameroon. Methods This cross-sectional study examined 439 small ruminants (163 sheep and 276 goats) slaughtered across Buea, Limbe I, and Tiko, between September 2024 and February 2025. Faecal samples were analysed by concentration techniques for qualitative helminth identification. Serum biochemical profiles were determined for goats for twelve analytes. Results An overall GIH prevalence of 63.8% (95%CI 59.3–68.1%) was recorded, with significantly higher prevalence in sheep (72.4%) than goats (58.7%) (χ²= 8.323; p ≤ 0.0039). Nine helminth genera were identified: seven nematodes, Haemonchus sp., Ostertagia sp., Cooperia sp., Chabertia sp., Trichostrongylus sp., Oesophagostomum sp., and Toxocara sp., and two trematodes, Fasciola sp., and Paramphistomum sp. Haemonchus sp. was the most prevalent genus in both hosts. Age was most strongly associated risk factor in univariable analysis (χ² = 94.41; p = 0.001), with young animals (< 18 months) exhibiting a prevalence of 89.1%. Biochemical analysis revealed elevated serum uric acid, creatinine, triglycerides, and total protein in infected goats, while liver enzymes remained within normal ranges. Conclusions GIH infection is highly endemic in Fako Division, with Haemonchus sp. the most prevalent genus. Young animals should be the primary target for helminth control. Seasonally timed treatment is recommended. These findings are relevant for evidence-based helminth control strategies in the South West Region of Cameroon.