Abstract

The present study was carried out to investigate the prevalence of Haemonchus contortus in sheep in Gyellesu, Zaria. A total of 350 sheep fecal samples were collected from three different sheep breeds namely; Yankassa, Uda and Balami. Their age and sex were recorded. Zinc sulphate flotation technique and modified McMaster technique was used. The overall prevalence was 57.14%. The prevalence of H. contortus in male and female sheep was recorded as 60 and 50%, respectively. There was an association between prevalence of H. contortus and sex (χ2 = 2.917). Odds ratio shows male having an increased chance of getting infected with H. contortus (OR = 1.500) than female (OR = 0.667). Sheep within the age group 6-25 months has greater odds of getting infected (OR = 2.000) than any other age group. Highest prevalence (66.67%) was also recorded in this age group (6-25 months). There was a significant association between the age group 6-25 months (χ2 = 9.722) and this association is statistically significant (P = 0.002). Yankassa had greater odds of getting infected (OR = 1.500) and this odd is not significant (CI= 0941- 2.392). It also had the highest prevalence rate (60%). This study has established a high prevalence of Haemonchosis among sheep reared under the traditional husbandry system in Gyellesu Zaria, Nigeria. It is therefore recommended that livestock owners be informed on the routine control of these parasites.