Prevalence of Parasitosis in Pigs Slaughtered at Ikpa Slaughter Slab, Nsukka

Parasitic infection in pigs present significant concern due to their economic impact on pig production and also public health especially in areas with high pork consumption. This research investigated the prevalence of parasitic infections in pigs slaughtered at Ikpa market slaughter slab, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria. A total of 295 pigs were examined using standard parasitological and meat inspection methods. The blood samples were analyzed for haemoparasites using microscopy while post mortem examination were carried out on the carcasses to detect the presence of metacestodes in tissues. The study recorded zero (0%) prevalence of haemoparasites indicating the absence of blood borne parasitic infections. However metacestodes were found in the tissues of thirty two pigs resulting in a prevalence of 10.71% suggesting the presence of Cysticercus cellulosae, the larval stage of the human tapeworm, Taenia solium. The absence of the haemoparasites may be attributed to improved management practices, low vector activity and climatic condition. The presence of metacestode highlights the need for stringent meat inspection in the slaughter slab to minimize the risks associated with consumption of infected pork and an increased number of trained meat inspectors. Public health awareness and improved sanitary conditions at slaughter slab are crucial to reducing the risks associated with parasitic infections in pigs.