Prevalence Of Porcine Cysticercosis And Risk Factors For Taenia Solium Cysticercosis/taeniosis In Three Divisions Of Homa Bay District, Kenya
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Publication Date
2010Author
R Otieno, P Kitala, SM Githigia, N Maingi, EE Eshitera
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A cross sectional study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of Cysticercus cellolulosae in three
divisions of Homa Bay District. Pig farming in the district is mainly by free-range, with most farmers
keeping commonly one to six pigs. The study involved ante mortem lingual examination and palpation
.The prevalence of risk factors for Taenia solium cysticercosis and taeniosis was determined by
administration of a standard questionnaire at household level. Most of the pig farmers (65.8%) were
females and of those interviewed 77.9% had undergone formal education. Farming was the main
occupation (85.9%) and high proportions (88%) of pigs kept were for sale. The pigs were mainly tethered
(98.4%) during the planting season, (97.9%) during growing season and (98.4%) during the harvesting
season. Farmers fed their pigs on kitchen left over and pasture (46.9%) and kitchen left over, sweet
potatoes and pasture (25.9%). None of the farmers supplemented their pigs with commercial feeds. The
ante mortem lingual palpation and examination of 193 pigs showed presence of palpable cysts was
estimated at 5.83 % (14 of 240) and 1.25% suspected (3 of 240). Those practicing home slaughter
without official meat inspection were 13.98% (27 out of 193). The number of homes without latrines was
100 out of 193 = 51.8 %. Previous tapeworm experience was 94.8% (183 out of 193). Results of this
study indicate that porcine cysticercosis is prevelant in free range pigs in three divisions of Homabay
District. The low levels of knowledge of occurence and of the mode spread of T. solium is a probable
contributor to the maintenance of the parasite. Lack of proper housing, lack of latrines and failure to use
those that are present and active tapeworm infestation also contribute the perpetuation of the parasite in
the District. Education of the farmers on the need of proper housing for the pigs, construction and use of
latrines could go a long way in reducing the prevalence. A more sensitive test ought to be carried out to
establish the almost true prevalence considering lingual examination and palpation has a lowly sensitivity
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