Indexing

An Appraisal of Toxocarosis in Calves in India through a Meta-analysis of Prevalence Studies

Author: Shirale S.Y. and Bhangale G.N.

PDF Download PDF

Abstract

Toxocarosis in buffalo calves is a very important diseases which is causing a significant impact on the dairy enterprises at it affects the most vulnerable stage of the life a dairy animal. The current meta-analysis was conducted to appraise the distribution of toxocarosis in cattle and buffalo calves of India. A systematic search for the prevalence data of cow and buffalo calves for the period 1986 to 2020 from open source databases was carried out which gave 30 eligible studies for this meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of toxocarosis in cow and buffalo calves of India was found to be 10.5% (95 % CI=7.0 – 14.5%). Meta-analysis showed that there is statistically high heterogeneity for the prevalence estimates reported in recruited studies. The effect of moderators viz. sample size and publication year on meta-analysis was also analysed through a meta-regression. This meta-regression showed that there was significant negative relationship between both the variables and final estimates of prevalence. This study provided primary insights on the abundance of toxocarosis infection in calves and warrants for the critical care to be taken during early days of life as well as weaning of calves. Results of this study helps in planning for strategic deworming schedule of calves to avoid future losses.

Keywords

Cow, buffalo, calves, Toxocara, India, MetaXL, weaning

Conclusion

The detailed meta-analysis of prevalence estimates of toxocarosis in cow and buffalo calves provided essential insights on its distribution in Indian livestock. The pooled prevalence rate of 10.5% is substantial and it affirms the necessity to undertake the more concerted efforts to reduce this infection by systematic epidemiological surveillance and monitoring so as to improve the productivity of dairy animals.

References

-

How to cite this article

Shirale S.Y. and Bhangale G.N. (2023). An Appraisal of Toxocarosis in Calves in India through a Meta-analysis of Prevalence Studies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 331-337.