The History and Prevalence of Cystic Hydatidosis (Hydatid Disease) in Sheep, Goats, Cattle and Camels in Libya: A Review | Chapter 7 | Research Aspects in Agriculture and Veterinary Science Vol. 3

Cystic hydatid disease is caused by Echinococcus granulosus, a cestode parasite. Hydatid cysts are one of the most common parasitic infections in Libya, causing a variety of health problems in humans and financial losses due to the condemnation of infected viscera from slaughtered animals, as well as a reduction in the quality and quantity of other livestock products like milk, wool, and meat. The parasite's adult stage is about 3-7 mm long, with three segments on average, as well as other morphological and morphological features that aid in species identification. According to many abattoir examinations in Libya, cystic hydatidosis is a disease that affects a variety of animal species with varying rates of infection, including sheep (1.6 to 40%), goats (5.6 to 70%), cattle (2.7 to 56%), and camels (2.7 to 48%). (2.7 to 48 percent ). Based on available abattoir data, cystic echinococcosis in cattle can be classified as highly endemic across the country, with infection rates of about 50% or more in all animal species, meeting WHO requirements. Because all abattoirs lack reliable and up-to-date government records, determining the exact financial losses caused by cystic hydatidosis in livestock is challenging. The diagnosis of the parasite larval stage (hydatid disease) in living intermediate hosts (ante mortem) is primarily based on imaging and serological methods, whereas the post mortem examination of hydatid cysts can be based on inspection of several expected infected organs, primarily the liver and lungs, but also the spleen, kidneys, heart, brain, and bones of the animal. Veterinary efforts on reducing the extent and intensity of echinococcosis in definitive host populations, which may indirectly lead to control of hydatid disease prevalence in intermediate host species, are the mainstays of cystic hydatid disease prevention. Animals with cystic hydatidosis can be treated with anti-helminthic drugs, though this is currently being researched. In order to limit the level of infection and egg emission, regular treatment, extreme caution when handling pets or dealing with animal flesh, and immunisation of ruminant intermediate hosts are all being examined.

Author(S) Details

Mohamed M. Rhagem
Department of Zoology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Zawia, P.O.Box 16418, Zawia, Libya.

Wafa M. Ibrahem
Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zawia, P.O.Box 16418, Zawia, Libya.

Kawther M. Ibrahem
Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Zawia, P.O.Box 16418, Zawia, Libya.

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