Tanzania Veterinary Journal

Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Bovine Babesiosis in West Kordofan State, Sudan

Suleiman A. I. Hano — 2026-07-20

Bovine babesiosis is a tick-borne disease with great economic impacts on the cattle sector globally, caused by Babesia species and transmitted by Rhipicephalus and Ixodes ticks. This study aimed to determine its prevalence and risk factors in West Kordofan State, Sudan. A cross-sectional study was conducted from June to December 2022. Blood samples from 154 cattle were randomly collected from Mayram (n=50), Muglad (n=54), and Debab (n=50). Babesia spp. were detected using microscopic examination of Giemsa-stained blood smears, and risk factor data were collected thorough a structured questionnaire. The overall prevalence of Babesia spp. Infection was 37.0%. prevalence was highest in Mayram (48.0%), followed by Muglad (35.2%) and Debab (28.0%). Univariate analysis revealed significant associations with age, purpose of raising, cross-border movement, treatment history, and tick infestation. Multivariate analysis identified strong associations with cattle age (OR = 3.048, 95% CI: 1.219-7.621), cross-border movement (OR = 11.912 95% CI: 2.627-54.011), and lack of previous antiparasitic treatment (OR = 2.706). No significant associations were found for location, sex, breed, body condition, herd size, grazing system, or owner awareness. Bovine babesiosis is highly prevalent in West Kordofan. Key risk factors include cattle age, cross-border movement, and no prior treatment. The study recommends movement restrictions, regular antiparasitic treatments, improved veterinary surveillance, and molecular diagnostic methods for accurate species identification.

Keywords: Bovine babesiosis; Babesia species; cattle disease; risk factors; prevalence; tick-borne diseases; Sudan.

CCDC174 Gene Expression as a Molecular Marker of Bull Fertility

Janeth D. Mbuma — 2026-07-20

Conventional semen evaluation methods do not fully capture molecular differences among ejaculates with similar motility profiles. The CCDC174 gene has been associated with sperm motility and fertility in dairy bulls, but its predictive value across breeds under field classification systems remains unclear. This study evaluated whether CCDC174 expression differs between fertile and sub-fertile ejaculates and whether it predicts progressive motility. A total of 53 ejaculates from nine bulls of three dairy breeds (Friesian, Ayrshire, and Jersey) were analyzed at the National Artificial Insemination Centre, Tanzania. Ejaculates were classified as fertile or sub-fertile based on progressive motility . CASA was used to assess sperm kinetics. CCDC174 expression was quantified using qPCR, with GAPDH as the reference gene. Associations between variables were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests, and a linear mixed-effects model was used to evaluate predictors of progressive motility. Most ejaculates (81.1%) were classified as fertile. CCDC174 expression differed significantly between fertile and sub-fertile groups. Progressive motility was associated with breed and gene expression in unadjusted analysis. In the mixed-effects model, CCDC174 expression and specific sperm kinetic parameters were significant predictors of progressive motility, while breed and season were not significant after adjustment. The study concludes that CCDC174 gene expression is associated with sperm progressive motility and independently predicts fertility-related parameters beyond conventional semen evaluation. These findings support its potential use as a complementary molecular marker in bull fertility assessment.

Biodiversity and Epidemiology of Tick Infestation in Pet Dogs in Baghdad, Iraq

Khalida H. Younis — 2026-07-22

This study is aimed at investigating the species composition, richness, diversity indices, evenness, spread, prevalence, and risk factors associated with tick infestation among pet dogs in Baghdad, Iraq. Six hundred and sixty-five pet dogs were subjected to systematic integumentary examinations; the ticks were collected in 70% ethanol and transported to the Laboratory, where they were morphologically identified using standard entomological keys. The biodiversity and species richness indices, the prevalence and risk factors of the infestation patterns, and the degree of tick infestation were determined. Of the 665 pet dogs sampled, 313 were infested with ticks, representing a prevalence of 47.07% with a 95% confidence interval of 43.30–50.87. A total of 759 ticks were collected belonging to four different species (Hyalomma anatolicum, Rhipicephalus linnaei, Rhipicephalus pravus, and Rhipicephalus turanicus), with R. linnaei being the most prevalent. The biodiversity and species richness indices of ticks infesting pet dogs in Baghdad, Iraq, showed a low diversity and richness of tick species among the dogs, with fewer species (R. linnaei) dominating the ecosystem, and with the dogs being evenly distributed across the tick species. Breed, sex, age, season, and degree of infestation were significantly associated with the infestation of ticks among pet dogs in the study. This appears to be the first study in Iraq to assess the biodiversity of tick infestation in dogs. Findings from this study emphasize the need for owners of pet dogs to adopt regular, proper, and adequate tick control programs to prevent possible zoonotic transmissions of pathogens.

Influence of Monochromatic Light Exposure during Incubation and Rearing Stage on Carcass Traits and Meat Quality of Broilers

Mziray A. Juraji — 2026-07-23

This study evaluated the effects of photo-thermal stimulation of broiler eggs and chicks, using different light wavelengths on carcass traits and meat quality of broiler chickens at market age. A total of 720 fertile broiler eggs were randomly assigned to three incubation light treatments from embryonic day one (ED1): green light (GL, 560 nm), blue light (BL, 480 nm), and darkness (control). After hatching, three parallel trials were conducted. In the first trial, day-old chicks (n = 240) from each treatment were reared under continuous photo stimulation matching the light intensity during incubation. In the second trial, chicks were brooded under their respective incubation light for two weeks, then exposed to conventional white light (WL). In the third trial, all chicks were reared under WL regardless of incubation light. All birds received standard diets, clean water, and vaccinations. Carcass traits (hot carcass weight, breast, thigh, drumstick, liver, heart, and abdominal fat) and meat quality parameters (pH, color, cooking loss, drip loss, and shear force) were recorded. Results showed that the BL and GL groups had significantly higher body and organ weights than WL. Dressing percentage peaked in BL (83.66%), while WL had the lowest (68.83%). Meat color (lightness L*) was higher in WL, indicating paler meat, while cooking and drip losses were also highest in WL, suggesting poor water-holding capacity. BL samples exhibited the lowest losses and shear force, reflecting better tenderness. Conclusively, photo stimulation using BL or GL, especially during early development, improves growth performance, carcass yield, and meat quality in broiler chickens.

Awareness of Human Health Risks Associated with Antimicrobial Residues in Beef and Related Antibiotic Use Practices Among Cattle Producers in Kibaha District, Tanzania

Kaduma C. Mwalusito — 2026-07-23

Antimicrobial agents have enhanced human and animal health by reducing infections, and they are widely applied in livestock for treatment, disease prevention, and growth promotion. However, misuse, particularly failure to observe withdrawal periods, can result in antimicrobial residues in animal products, leading to allergic reactions and contributing to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This study assessed awareness of these health risks among 216 cattle producers in Kibaha District, Tanzania. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire in Kobo Toolbox, administered through face-to-face interviews. Descriptive statistics summarized respondents’ demographics, awareness, and practices, while logistic regression examined the influence of age, education, experience, and gender. Findings revealed that although 86.6% had heard of antibiotics, only 38.2% understood withdrawal periods. Half (50.5%) believed antibiotics cure all animal diseases, and 46.7% were unaware of side effects. Awareness of AMR and antimicrobial residues was low, with more than 60% unfamiliar with these terms. Antibiotics were mostly accessed without veterinary prescriptions (81.6%), often with dosing based on past experience. Moreover, 69.8% stopped treatment once animals appeared improved. Older farmers demonstrated some safer practices but also relied heavily on informal drug use. Education had a significant positive effect, with those holding secondary education or higher showing better awareness and practices. Farming experience showed no consistent effect, while gender differences were negligible. Overall, the study highlights high antibiotic use but poor awareness of related health risks, underscoring the urgent need for farmer education, improved veterinary services, and stronger regulation to ensure safe antimicrobial use and protect public health.

Cardiopulmonary Effects of Alfaxalone-Xylazine versus Ketamine-Xylazine Anaesthesia in Local Chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus): A Pilot Study

Buluba Robert Sungwa — 2026-09-07

This study compared the effects of alfaxalone–xylazine and ketamine–xylazine combinations on anaesthesia in local chickens. Ten healthy chickens were randomly allocated into two groups: alfaxalone (5 mg/kg, n=4) or ketamine (5 mg/kg, n=6), both pre-mixed with xylazine (2.5 mg/kg) and administered intravenously via the wing vein. Induction time, duration of anaesthesia, and cardio-pulmonary parameters (respiration, heart rate, cloacal temperature) were monitored. Both protocols induced rapid anaesthesia with significant reductions in respiration and heart rates. Transient apnoea and cyanosis were observed only in the alfaxalone–xylazine group but resolved without mortality. Duration of anaesthesia did not differ significantly between groups (P>0.05). Both protocols appear suitable for inducing anaesthesia in local chickens; however, the small sample size and transient apnoea with alfaxalone-xylazine call for caution. Larger studies with stronger statistical methods are needed before firm clinical recommendations can be made.

Pen-floor moisture and sporulated Eimeria oocyst accumulation are associated with subsequent oocyst shedding in Boer-cross goat kids: a 12-week longitudinal study

Nguyen Thi Chuc — 2026-10-02

Pen-floor moisture may influence the development and persistence of environmental Eimeria oocysts, but its temporal relationship with subsequent infection in goat kids remains unclear. This 12-week longitudinal study followed 96 Boer-cross goat kids housed in 16 separate pens. Pen-floor moisture and environmental oocyst contamination were assessed weekly, individual faecal oocyst per gram (OPG) was determined every two weeks, and faecal consistency was scored weekly. Environmental contamination was expressed as total and sporulated oocysts per gram of dry matter. Median total oocyst burden increased from 1,525 oocysts/g DM at moisture levels below 25% to 6,728 oocysts/g DM at moisture levels of at least 45%, while median sporulated burden increased from 210 to 3,364 oocysts/g DM. Each 10-percentage-point increase in moisture was associated with 1.59- and 3.07-fold increases in total and sporulated environmental burdens, respectively. In separate two-week lag models, higher moisture and greater sporulated burden were associated with 1.38- and 1.22-fold increases in subsequent fecal OPG, respectively. When both exposures were included simultaneously, moisture was no longer independently associated with subsequent OPG, whereas each doubling of sporulated burden remained associated with a 1.26-fold increase. Neither exposure was significantly associated with subsequent diarrhoea. These findings indicate that moisture provides an environmental condition favouring oocyst accumulation and sporulation, whereas sporulated oocyst burden represents a more immediate indicator of subsequent infection pressure. Maintaining dry pen floors and removing faecal material regularly may help reduce environmental exposure

Characterization of Donkey Husbandry Systems in Four Peri-urban Communes in the Central Region of Burkina Faso

Gniné Fabiola Traoré — 2026-10-05

The donkey is an essential working animal in family farms across Burkina Faso. However, knowledge of donkey husbandry systems and management practices remains limited. This cross-sectional study was conducted from April to July 2026 in four communes of central Burkina Faso (Komsilga, Koubri, Pabré, and Saaba). Data were collected from 100 donkey keepers selected using a snowball sampling approach through a structured survey. Descriptive statistics, Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA), and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) were used to characterize donkey husbandry systems and identify keeper profiles. . The results showed that donkey owners were predominantly men (71%), mostly farmers (83%), and generally owned small herds (78%). All respondents practised extensive husbandry and used natural pasture, harvested forage, and crop residues. Donkeys were used mainly for transport (99%) and field work (96%), while none of the respondents reported keeping donkeys for breeding purposes. Keepers did not recognize distinct breeds but differentiated animals by coat colour, with the local term tampouré (grey coat) predominating (82%). Multivariate analysis identified three distinct keeper profiles, differentiated by age, experience, location, and management practices. These findings underline the socio-economic importance of the donkey, highlighting the need to improve management practices for the conservation of local donkey genetic resources.

Antidepressant- and Anxiolytic-Like Effects of Nutmeg Essential Oil (Myristica Fragrans Houtt.) In A Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress-Induced Mouse Model

Manahel A. Abdullah — 2026-10-05

Depression and anxiety are among the most prevalent psychiatric disorders worldwide, yet pharmacotherapies are associated with significant adverse effects and delay onset of action. Nutmeg oil has demonstrated central nervous system activity in preclinical models, but its efficacy in chronic stress-induced depression and anxiety remains unexplored. This study was done to evaluate the antidepressant- and anxiolytic-like effects of nutmeg essential oil (NEO) in chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) mouse model. Mice were exposed to CUMS and treated with NEO at 5, 10, or 20 mg/kg , fluoxetine, or vehicle. Body weight was monitored over 14 days. Behavioral outcomes were assessed using the Elevated plus maze (EPM) open field test (OFT), splash test, light and dark box test, forced swimming test (FST) , and tail suspension test (TST). Results demonstrated a significant dose-dependent response, with 5mg/kg identified as the most effective dose across all behavioral metrics. In the FST and TST, the 5mg/kg dose significantly reduced immobility time compared to the 10 and 20 mg/kg cohorts, showing effects comparable to the fluoxetine control. Similarly, in anxiety models (EPM, OFT, and light/dark box test) , the 5mg/kg dose effectively restored behavioral patterns closer to those of non-stressed control group, Notably, higher doses (10 and 20 mg/kg ) exhibited diminished efficacy across most parameters, including a non-monotonic, inverted U-shaped dose-response relationship. NEO reveals potent anxiolytic and antidepressant-like activities. The findings indicate that 5mg/kg is the optimal therapeutic dose in this CUMS model, while higher doses may lose efficacy, suggesting a narrow therapeutic window. These findings highlight the critical importance of dose optimization when evaluating the psychopharmacological potential of essential oils

Ectoparasite Infestation of Egyptian Fruit Bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus) in Kagera, Tanzania: First Records of Fleas, Mites, and Ticks

Herbertha Elias Mpete — 2026-10-11

Bats are recognized as important hosts of diverse ectoparasite communities that play significant roles in parasite ecology and pathogen transmission. However, knowledge of bat-associated arthropods in Tanzania remains limited. This study investigated the ectoparasites infesting cave-dwelling Egyptian fruit bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus) in the Kagera Region, northwestern Tanzania. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted in four caves of Kyerwa districts, Muleba districts and Bukoba rural. Among 193 bats examined six fleas were recovered from five bats, two mites from two bats, and two ticks from two bats. Morphological examination identified three groups of ectoparasites: fleas (Thaumapsylla sp.), ticks (Amblyomma sp.), and mites (Meristaspis sp.). Flea specimens were further characterized using mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis confirmed their identity as Thaumapsylla breviceps (T. breviceps). To our knowledge, this represents the first documented record of T. breviceps, Amblyomma sp., and Meristaspis sp. infesting R. aegyptiacus in the Kagera Region of Tanzania. These findings expand the current knowledge of bat-associated ectoparasite diversity in East Africa and provide a baseline for future studies on parasite ecology, host-parasite associations, and the ectoparasite diversity.

Surgical Management of Acute Traumatic Lacerations in a 2-Year-Old Intact West African Dwarf Doe: Case Report

Foluso Bolaji-Alabi — 2026-09-14

Traumatic injuries in small ruminants represent significant welfare and economic concerns, particularly when associated with extensive tissue loss and haemorrhage. This report describes the successful surgical management of a severe acute traumatic laceration involving the lateral thoracic musculature in a West African Dwarf goat. The doe presented with a large avulsion wound affecting the lateral thoracic muscles, extending cranially to the region between the forelimbs, and accompanied by substantial blood loss. Initial first aid administered by the owner included wound coverage with clean cloth and application of Gentian violet. Clinical examination revealed a relatively clean wound with exposed musculature and partial rib cartilage involvement. Surgical intervention involved aseptic wound preparation, debridement, lavage, layered closure, and appropriate postoperative care including antimicrobial therapy and analgesia. Healing progressed without complications, and the animal recovered uneventfully. This case highlights the effectiveness of prompt surgical intervention and appropriate postoperative management in achieving favourable outcomes under field condition.

Gaps in One Health Strategies for Rational Antimicrobial Use in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa: A Systematic Review

Philbert B. Madoshi — 2026-09-24

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is accelerated by inappropriate antimicrobial use across human and animal-health systems, yet the extent to which One Health approaches have informed antimicrobial stewardship in Eastern, Middle, and Southern Africa remains incompletely described. This systematic review synthesized evidence on antimicrobial-use practices, self-medication, prescribing and dispensing, stewardship, and cross-sectoral One Health integration in the region. Peer-reviewed English-language studies published from 2012 to 2024 were identified through bibliographic and supplementary searches and screened using predefined eligibility criteria. Ninety-three unique studies were included. Evidence was concentrated in human-health settings, particularly community and hospital studies, with fewer livestock and veterinary studies and very limited integrated cross-sectoral research. Commonly reported concerns included non-prescription access to antimicrobials, self-medication, empirical prescribing, limited diagnostic support, restricted access to professional veterinary services, and gaps in antimicrobial stewardship and regulatory oversight. Study designs, populations, definitions, and measurement instruments were heterogeneous; therefore, findings were synthesized primarily narratively. The evidence indicates substantial gaps in integrated One Health approaches to rational antimicrobial use and limited intervention evidence. Strengthening coordinated stewardship, surveillance, diagnostic capacity, regulation, and cross-sectoral research is needed to support rational antimicrobial use in the region.

Applications of Metabolomics in the Diagnosis of Animal Protozoan Diseases and Antiprotozoal Drug Resistance: A Review

Moges Maru — 2026-10-11

This review highlights the expanding role of metabolomics in understanding animal protozoan diseases and detecting antiprotozoal drug resistance. Articles published in English were searched and identified through databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, using combinations of keywords related to metabolomics, metabolomic profiling, protozoan diseases, biomarkers, metabolic pathways, and antiprotozoal drug resistance from 02 November 2025 to 28 December 2025. Protozoan parasites including Trypanosoma, Leishmania, Babesia, Theileria, Eimeria, Cryptosporidium, and Toxoplasma induce significant metabolic disturbances detectable through advanced platforms such as NMR, LC–MS, and GC–MS. Metabolomics enables early diagnosis by identifying distinct biochemical fingerprints in biofluids (blood, saliva, urine, feces, and breath), differentiating infected from healthy animals while providing insight into host–parasite interactions, immune responses, and disease progression. Blood protozoan infections are associated with disruptions in amino acid, lipid, energy, and oxidative stress pathways, including ionone-related markers in trypanosomiasis, altered aldehydes and hydrocarbons in leishmaniasis, and amino acid and bile acid imbalances in babesiosis and theileriosis. Comparable metabolic alterations occur in intestinal and tissue infections, where changes in short-chain fatty acids, glycerophospholipids, long-chain fatty acids, and oxidative stress markers reflect gut dysbiosis, immune activation, and parasite nutrient exploitation. Metabolomics also facilitates detection of drug resistance by revealing metabolic reprogramming in resistant strains, including altered glycolysis, glutathione metabolism, and amino acid pathways, as well as sterol biosynthesis and oxidative stress adaptations. However, most reported biomarkers remain at the discovery or candidate stage and should not be considered clinically validated diagnostic tests or universal markers of drug resistance without independent validation. High analytical costs, pre-analytical and biological variation, incomplete metabolite annotation, small study populations, and limited external validation remain important barriers to routine veterinary application