Browsing by Author "AVUDRAGA STANELY"

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    PREVALENCE AND RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH SELECTED GASTROINTESTINAL PARASITES AMONG PIGS IN LAMWO DISTRICT, UGANDA
    (Gulu University, 2025) AVUDRAGA STANELY
    Abstract Gastrointestinal parasitic infections (GPI) in pigs significantly reduce health and productivity, especially in smallholder systems. In Lamwo District, Uganda, data on GPI prevalence and risk factors are limited, hindering effective control efforts. In 2023, a cross-sectional study was conducted across six sub-counties in Lamwo District. A total of 266 pigs from 178 households were sampled. Fecal samples were analyzed using Faecal Sedimentation and Modified McMaster techniques to detect parasite eggs and oocysts. Data on household demographics, pig husbandry, water sources, sanitation, and environmental conditions were collected through structured questionnaires and observations. Statistical analyses including Chi-square tests, logistic regression, and Pearson correlation analysis were performed in R (version 4.4.1) to determine prevalence and identify risk factors at a 5% significance level. Seven gastrointestinal parasites species were identified. Strongyles were most prevalent (67.7%–80.4%), followed by Fasciola spp. (21.8%) and Coccidia spp. (9.3%–19.9%). Overall GPI prevalence was 74.1%, highest in Paloga Sub- County (13.9%) and lowest in Palabek Kal Town Council (10.2%). Key risk factors included feeding raw swill (AOR = 3.37–4.35; p < 0.02), free-ranging husbandry AOR = 1.82; p = 0.0226), and exposure to human feces from open defecation (AOR = 0.87–2.48; p < 0.03). Local breeds were more affected than exotic or crossbreds. Access to piped or mixed water reduced infection risk. Land-use intensity also influenced infection (OR = 0.41; p = 0.0003). Correlation analysis showed moderate positive associations between GPI and both demographic (r = 0.60; p = 0.005) and husbandry factors (r = 0.53; p = 0.000). This study confirms a high burden of GPI in pigs in Lamwo District and highlights the critical role of poor husbandry, hygiene, and environmental factors in parasite transmission. Integrated, community-based control strategies including improved hygiene, better husbandry, farmer education, and veterinary interventions are essential to enhance pig health, boost productivity,and reduce zoonotic risks to local communities.