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Eimeria spp. in Cattle: A Global Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Laya Shamsi1, Ali Pouryousef2, Mohammad Reza Mohammadi3
1Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, SR.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
Veterinary Medicine and Science
|May 11, 2026
Summary
Eimeria spp. infections, or coccidiosis, affect one-third of cattle globally, posing significant economic and health challenges. Calves and female cattle are most affected, highlighting the need for improved control strategies.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Global Animal Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Eimeria species are significant protozoan parasites causing coccidiosis in cattle worldwide.
- Coccidiosis leads to substantial economic losses and impacts animal health globally.
- Understanding the global prevalence and risk factors is crucial for effective control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze the global prevalence, species distribution, and risk factors of Eimeria spp. in cattle.
- To provide a comprehensive overview of Eimeria infection burden in cattle populations.
- To identify key factors influencing Eimeria prevalence for informed control strategies.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of international databases up to April 2025.
- Meta-analysis of 203 studies (133,740 cattle) using a random-effects model to estimate pooled prevalence.
- Subgroup, meta-regression, sensitivity analyses, and funnel plot assessment for heterogeneity and bias.
Main Results:
- Global pooled prevalence of Eimeria spp. in cattle is 33.6%, with significant heterogeneity (I² = 99.4%).
- Calves under one year (56.3%) and female cattle (66.7%) exhibited higher infection rates.
- Sixteen Eimeria species were identified, with E. bovis and E. zuernii being predominant.
Conclusions:
- Eimeria infection represents a substantial global burden in cattle, particularly affecting young and female animals.
- While sample size influenced prevalence estimates, significant heterogeneity remains.
- Standardized reporting and balanced geographical studies are essential for advancing global coccidiosis control.
