INCIDENCE OF STRONGYLOIDES STERCORALIS IN CATTLE DROPPINGS

Strongyloides stercoralis is a parasitic nematode that infects humans and animals including cattle. It is commonly found in tropical and sub- tropical regions, where poor sanitation and unhygienic living conditions contribute to its transmission. Cattle are known to be carrier of various infectious agents, including Strongyloides stercoralis which can be transmitted to humans through direct contact or consumption of contaminated meat or water. This study was carried out to determine the incidence of Strongyloides stercoralis in cattle droppings in Eket abattoirs. A total of 100 feces from cattle were collected from different abattoir (cow settlement) in Eket Local government Area. Twenty (20) each from five (5) abattoirs. Microscopic examination was done using direct wet preparation method. A total of 14 (100%) cattle feces showed positive parasite of Strongyloides stercoralis. St Gregory abattoir showed highest parasite 4 (28.6%) followed by 3 (21.4%) and 2 (14.3%) from Ata-Obong and Okon Eket abattoir respectively . For the growth stages, a total of five eggs of the parasite was detected 5 (5.0%), while seven (7) adults parasite was identified with incidence rate of (7.0%). This study revealed a notable presence of Strongyloides stercoralis in the sampled cattle feces, suggesting a considerable risk of transmission to both animals and humans. The data indicates that environmental factors such as sanitation practices and grazing patterns, may influence the prevalence of this parasite. Therefore, there is a critical need for enhanced public health strategies, including regular deworming of cattle, improved sanitary conditions and community education on the risks associated with parasitic infection.