Prevalence, Organ Distribution, and Economic Importance of Bovine Hydatidosis in Gimbichu Municipal Abattoir, Hadiya Zone, Ethiopia

A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2019 to July 2020 at Gimbichu municipal abattoir with the objectives of determining the prevalence of bovine hydatidosis, Organ distribution of hydatid cysts, and assessing the economic impact of the disease. Ante-mortem and postmortem examinations were performed to detect hydatid cysts. Out of 400 randomly selected cattle slaughtered at the abattoir, the prevalence of hydatidosis was found to be 83 (20.75%). The abattoir survey showed that the hydatid cyst was highest in old aged cattle (41.9%) followed by adult (17%) and young (16.5%). The analysis result showed that the hydatidosis was high in females (38%) compare with male (18.2%). Poor body condition scores were associated with higher prevalence. The lung (45.8%) and liver (40.46%) were the most commonly affected organs. The study revealed that infected organs were often contaminated with hydatid cysts from multiple sites. The findings were consistent with similar studies conducted in other regions of Ethiopia and neighboring countries. Factors such as backyard slaughtering, improper disposal of infected organs, and the presence of stray dogs contributed to the high prevalence. Recommendations include implementing strict routine meat inspection, proper disposal of infected organs, raising public awareness about the disease cycle, and treating owned dogs while avoiding contact with stray dogs. These measures are crucial to break the life cycle of Echinococcus granulosus and to reduce the prevalence and economic impact of bovine hydatidosis in the study area.