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Published on: February 20, 2015
Bovine Eimeria species in Austria
1Clinic for Ruminants, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria.
Parasitology Research
|December 15, 2011
Summary
Bovine eimeriosis is widespread in Austrian dairy farms, with nearly all calves shedding Eimeria oocysts. This study details the prevalence of 11 Eimeria species, highlighting the need for increased farmer and veterinarian attention to this common cattle parasite.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Animal Health
- Livestock Production
Background:
- Bovine eimeriosis significantly impacts cattle health and productivity globally.
- Limited data exists on the prevalence and distribution of Eimeria species in Austrian cattle.
- Understanding Eimeria spp. occurrence is crucial for effective disease management in Austrian dairy farming.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the occurrence and distribution of Eimeria species in Austrian dairy calves.
- To assess farmer knowledge and control measures for coccidiosis in calves.
- To correlate Eimeria infection levels with clinical signs and calf demographics.
Main Methods:
- Fecal samples were collected from 868 calves across 296 Austrian dairy farms.
- Eimeria species identification was performed after sporulation of pooled fecal samples.
- Farmers were surveyed regarding calf diarrhea, coccidiosis awareness, and treatment practices.
Main Results:
- Eimeria oocysts were detected on 97.97% of farms, with 83.67% of individual calves positive.
- Eleven Eimeria species were identified, with E. bovis, E. zuernii, E. auburnensis, and E. ellipsoidalis being most prevalent.
- Mixed infections were common, and clinical coccidiosis (diarrhea) was significantly correlated with oocysts per gram (OPG) values.
Conclusions:
- Bovine eimeriosis is ubiquitous in Austrian dairy herds, necessitating greater attention from farmers and veterinarians.
- Prevalence and OPG levels varied by region and were influenced by calf age and cattle density.
- Limited farmer awareness and anticoccidial treatment highlight a gap in current coccidiosis management strategies.
