PREVALENCE RATE OF PARAMPHISTOMUM SPP. INFECTION IN SLAUGHTERED SHEEP AT TAMBOUL SLAUGHTERHOUSE, GEZIRA STATE, SUDAN

Background: Paramphistomosis is a trematode infection of ruminants caused by adult Paramphistomum spp. in the rumen and reticulum. It leads to organ condemnation and economic losses. Objective: To determine the prevalence and risk factors of adult Paramphistomum spp. in sheep slaughtered at Tamboul Slaughterhouse, Gezira State, Sudan. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to June 2021. A total of 220 sheep were examined during routine meat inspection. Rumens and reticula were opened, washed and examined for adult flukes. Data on sex and age were recorded. Chi-square test was used. Results: Overall prevalence was 15.0% (33/220). Females 16.8% had significantly higher prevalence than males 12.6% (P<0.05). Prevalence increased with age: <6 months 10.8%, 6-12 months 17.6%, >12 months 19.4% (P<0.05). The rumen was the main site 84.8%. Mean worm burden was 48 ± 12.3 flukes/infected animal. Conclusion: Adult Paramphistomum infection is present in sheep at Tamboul. Age and sex are risk factors. Integrated control of snails and strategic deworming are recommended.