Theileria parva seroprevalence in traditionally kept cattle in southern Zambia and El Nino

P Fandamu; L Duchateau; N Speybroeck; T Marcotty; V Mbao; J Mtambo; M Mulumba; D Berkvens

doi:10.1016/j.ijpara.2004.12.011

Theileria parva seroprevalence in traditionally kept cattle in southern Zambia and El Nino

Int J Parasitol. 2005 Apr 1;35(4):391-6. doi: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2004.12.011.

Authors

P Fandamu¹, L Duchateau, N Speybroeck, T Marcotty, V Mbao, J Mtambo, M Mulumba, D Berkvens

Affiliation

¹ Department of Veterinary and Livestock Development, Mazabuka Veterinary Research Station, P.O. Box 670050, Mazabuka, Zambia.

PMID: 15777915
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2004.12.011

Abstract

Sero-epidemiological surveys involving 27,526 cattle over a period of 8 years show that Theileria parva, the parasite causing East Coast fever (ECF) is found throughout southern Zambia. Higher values of T. parva sero-prevalence were observed in the plateau districts of Monze, Choma and Mazabuka than in the valley districts of Siavonga and Sinazongwe. Our results reveal a strong association between high T. parva sero-prevalence and the presence of the periodic climatic phenomenon known as the El Nino Southern Oscillation. More T. parva sero-positive samples were recorded during El Nino years (1997/98) (P<0.001) than other years in the study period. From this association, we conclude that Multiple El Nino Southern Oscillation Indices can be used to predict years with high or low ECF infection prevalence thereby contributing to the improved control of ECF in the area.

Publication types

Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

Animals
Cattle
Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect / veterinary
Meteorological Concepts*
Seawater
Seroepidemiologic Studies
Theileria parva*
Theileriasis / epidemiology*
Water Movements
Zambia