First molecular detection of Sarcocystis suihominis in a domestic pig of Nigeria.

Sarcocystis are Apicomplexan protozoa with a dixenous life cycle that includes a predator and a prey as definitive and intermediate hosts, respectively. Domestic and wild pigs are intermediate hosts of S. suihominis, with formation of sarcocysts in their muscles, while humans and non-human primates act as final hosts. After ingesting raw or undercooked sarcocyst-infested pork, signs of gastroenteritis including inappetence, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may develop in humans. Moreover, excretion of infective forms with human feces leads to dissemination of the parasite in the environment. In this study, macroscopic sarcocysts of white color, oval shape, and a diameter of approximately 3-8 mm were found in the skeletal muscle of a slaughtered domestic pig (Sus scrofa domesticus) destined for human consumption in an abattoir of Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria. Sarcocyst DNA was used as template to PCR amplify the near-complete length of the 18S rRNA gene and a fragment of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox-1) gene. Amplicons were sequenced and used to construct phylogenetic trees with selected available Sarcocystis spp. sequences. In both cases, the placement of the analyzed sequences with S. suihominis was strongly supported, confirming the species identity of this macroscopic sarcocyst-forming parasite. This constitutes the first molecular identification of S. suihominis in Nigeria and the African continent. Proximity between pigs and humans, and poor sanitary conditions frequently encountered in pig farms of Nigeria might favor the dissemination of this zoonotic parasite, posing a threat to public health.

Current status and risk factors of canine parvovirus type 2 in North Central Nigeria.

Since its emergence in Nigeria, canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) infection has posed problems to dog breeding and requires constant awareness and monitoring. In this study, the status, the assessment of extrinsic risk factors of parvoviral infection in dog kennels in North Central Nigeria, and isolation of the CPV-2 were carried out. Potential risk factors were considered during sampling: age, breed, sex, location, vaccination and health status, using well-structured questionnaires on dog owners with experience of CPV-2 infection. There was high prevalence which depended on age, breed, location, clinical status of the dog while vaccination status of the dogs did not influence the prevalence. CPV-2 vaccination compliance by the breeders and management system of the kennels were also observed as risk factors. Isolation of CPV-2a and -2c strains from Nigeria for further study has been reported. The spread of CPV-2 in Nigeria is increasing, hence needs for continual epidemiological monitoring and review.

Update on Peste des petits ruminants status in South East Nigeria: serological and farmers' awareness investigation, and potential risk factors.

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a highly contagious, trans-boundary viral disease of sheep and goats that have hindered successful small ruminant farming. Its current status in South East Nigeria with respect to its prevalence and farmers' awareness was studied. Three states, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Enugu, were randomly selected for the study. Sera samples from 113 goats and 172 sheep (collected from December 2017 to June 2018) were randomly collected and analysed for the presence of PPRV antibodies, while structured interview schedules were conducted to elicit information on farmers' awareness of the disease and PPR vaccination and use of veterinary services. An overall seroprevalence of 42.5% (121/285) was recorded. The seroprevalence in decreasing order was 62.2% (Enugu), 34.8% (Anambra) and 20.3% (Ebonyi). There was a significant association (X2 = 36.08, df = 2, p = 0.0001) between seroprevalence and the state sampled. Lack of awareness of PPR vaccination among small ruminant farmers, their limited use of veterinary services (38% consult veterinarians) and non-availability of the vaccine at veterinary establishments in the sampled states are potential risk factors of PPR prevalence in South East Nigeria. Consequently, an effective control measure like mass vaccination is recommended for the study area. Also, there is a need for an extension program for stakeholders and farmers in the study area and country on the grave importance and economic benefits of PPR vaccination and the use of veterinary services.