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Updated: Jun 9, 2026

Comparative Analysis of Automatic Fecal Analyzer versus Direct Wet Smear Microscopy for Detecting Parasitic Infections in Stool Samples
Published on: April 25, 2025
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infections in Buffaloes Across Commercial and Subsistence
Arti Neupane1, Shristi Bhandari1, Tikaram Khanal2
1Central Department of Zoology, Tribhuvan University, Kritipur, Kathmandu, Bagmati, Nepal, tribhuvan-university.edu.np.
Background:
Gastrointestinal parasites (GIPs) impair livestock productivity and impose economic burdens on farmers. Buffaloes are central to Nepal's dairy sector, yet comparative data on GIP burden across farming systems remain limited.
Objective:
This study investigates GIP prevalence and associated risk factors in buffaloes under commercial and subsistence farming systems in Butwal submetropolitan city, Nepal, an area of rapidly expanding dairy production.
Methods:
From July to September 2023, 224 fecal samples (112 per farming system) were collected from female buffaloes aged ≥ 3 years. Samples were examined microscopically using flotation and sedimentation techniques, and management and environmental factors were captured through structured questionnaires and field observations. Logistic regression identified predictors of infection.
Results:
Overall, 58.9% of samples contained oocysts or eggs of one or more GIP. The identified parasites included three protozoa (Entamoeba spp., Balantidium spp., and coccidian), three nematodes (Strongyloides spp., Toxocara spp., and Haemonchus spp.), and three trematodes (Fasciola spp., Paramphistomum spp., and Schistosoma spp.). Fasciola spp. (30.8%) and Entamoeba spp. (26.3%) were most prevalent. Commercial farms had significantly higher nematode infections (10.7% vs. 2.7%, p = 0.029), while subsistence farms showed slightly higher protozoan infections (33.9% vs. 25.9%). Free-ranging rearing (aOR = 3.11, 95% CI: 1.15-8.43) and irregular health checkups (aOR = 2.92, 95% CI: 1.05-8.12) were strongly associated with infections. The presence of other free-range animals and wallowing also influenced infection patterns.
Conclusion:
The substantial GIP burden and system-specific risk factors highlight the need for improved parasite management. Enhanced deworming, better grazing practices, and farmer education may help reduce infections and improve buffalo productivity.
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