The Journal of Protozoology Research
Online ISSN : 2434-7027
Print ISSN : 0917-4427
Surra in Camel Calves in Laikipia District of Kenya
Z. K. NjiruI. M. Ole-MapenyJ. O. OumaJ. M. Ndung’uW. M. Olaho-Mukani
Author information
JOURNAL FREE ACCESS

2001 Volume 11 Issue 1-2 Pages 19-25

Details
Abstract

Camel trypanosomosis (Surra) is one of the most important diseases affecting camel calves. It presents itself as an acute form and is usually fatal if treatment is not carried out. A study was initiated at Mogwooni ranch in Laikipia district of Kenya to survey the prevalence of trypanosomosis in camel calves of mixed breeds, and to evaluate the microhaematocrit centrifugation technique (MHCT), monoclonal antibody based card latex agglutination test (Suratex®), wet smear and mouse inoculation (MI) in the diagnosis of the disease in camels. The tests were assessed for a period of 16 months. The mean Trypanosoma evansi prevalence ranged from 4.5% as determined by the wet smear, 11.1% by MHCT, 14.6% by MI, to 28.3% by Suratex®. Young calf death rate due to trypanosomosis was 12.3% while overall mortality rate was 15.0%. The cost of veterinary care (anti-helminthics, acaricides and trypanocides) was on average US$ 4.6 per calf per year. It is thus recommended that diagnosis accompanied by proper treatment be carried out routinely for the survival of camel calves in trypanosomosis endemic areas.

Content from these authors
© 2001 National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, National University Corporation Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
Previous article Next article
feedback
Top