Prevalence, distribution and risk factors associated with taeniid cestode infections of trade dogs, in Dawaki, Plateau State, Nigeria

Taeniid cestodiases are cosmopolitan infections and refer to a group of parasitic zoonoses caused by tapeworms of the genera Echinococcus and Taenia. In this study we used the sodium chloride floatation technique and well structured close ended questionnaires to determine the prevalence, distribution and risk factors associated with these infections in trade dogs in Dawaki, Plateau State. Data were analysed using chi-square (x2) test, odds ratio and logistic regression at 95% confidence interval. Of the 203 faecal samples analysed, a total of 115 were positive, yielding an overall prevalence of 56.7%. Prevalence rates revealed by Echinococcus granulosus 55(27.1%), Taenia hydatigena 4(2.0%), Taenia ovis 44 (21.7%) and mixed infections 12(5.9%) varied significantly (p<0.05). Prevalence rates in relation to age, sex and dog type varied significantly (p<0.05) ranging between 38.7% and 82.8% while those in relation to sources of trade dogs ranged between 19.2 and 41.2% (E. granulosus), 0 and 9.1% (T. hydatigena), 17.6 and 36.4% (T. ovis) and 48.9 and 66.7% for all parasites. Lack of awareness of zoonotic cestodiasis and lack of knowledge of transmission of zoonotic cestodes between dogs and owners were among the major risk factors that significantly influenced the prevalence of zoonotic cestodiasis. Echinococcus granulosus, T. hydatigena and T. ovis are prevalent among trade dogs in Dawaki and the control of these cestode infections requires improved management practices and public education.Keywords: Prevalence; risk factors; taeniid cestodiasis; public health; trade dogs; Dawaki