Prevalence of Trypanosomiasis in Cattle in Kogi State, North Central Nigeria

This study investigates the prevalence of bovine trypanosomiasis in cattle herds in selected local government areas of Kogi State, situated in Nigeria's North Central geopolitical zone. Trypanosomiasis, transmitted primarily by tsetse flies (Glossina spp.), represents a major constraint on cattle productivity and herd expansion in the tsetse-endemic Middle Belt zone of Nigeria, causing anaemia, weight loss, immunosuppression, and death. A cross-sectional study design was employed, with blood samples collected from 280 cattle belonging to 20 herds across four local government areas over a six-month period. Thick blood films were prepared and examined by light microscopy for trypanosomes, and the buffy coat technique was used to increase diagnostic sensitivity. Trypanosoma species were identified based on morphological criteria. Data on herd management and habitat proximity to tsetse habitat were collected. Findings revealed an overall prevalence of 22.5 percent, with Trypanosoma vivax as the most prevalent species (14.6%), followed by T. congolense (6.4%) and T. brucei brucei (1.4%). Cattle grazed in riverine areas showed significantly higher prevalence. Zebu cattle demonstrated lower infection rates than Fulani-managed mixed breed herds. Anaemia was significantly associated with trypanosome-positive status. The study recommends integrated tsetse and trypanosomiasis control strategies including targeted trypanocidal treatment, vector control, and trypano-tolerant cattle breed promotion in the region. Keywords: trypanosomiasis, cattle, Kogi State, tsetse fly, prevalence.