A Survey of Trypanosoma and Microfilaria Parasites Prevalence in Cattle in the Accra Plains of Southern Ghana: Implications for Trypanosomiasis Control Strategies in Ghana and Livestock Health

This survey was undertaken between September, 2010 and December, 2010 to determine Trypanosomiasis and microfilaria prevalence in cattle in the Shai Hills area of the Greater Accra Region of Southern Ghana in relation to livestock health as per PCV counts. The results showed that Trypanosoma parasites were absent, however, microfilaria parasites were present. The prevalence level of microfilaria among the cattle (Sanga) was 6.5% (p<0.05). This was found among the bulls and the cows. The PCV ranges were; calves, 26-40 (p<0.05), cows, 26-34 (p<0.05) and the bulls, 21-29 (p<0.05), respectively. These results showed that the continuous monitoring and treatment of Trypanosomiasis by the Ministry of Agriculture technical officers (MoFA) is effective in controlling the disease among cattle. However, the results also showed that microfilaria parasites were prevalent. This appeared to have affected the health status of the cattle with low PCV counts as observed in the bulls. The implication for health and reproduction would be weak calves and less effective mating in the adults of reproductive age.