Prevalence and risk factors of toxocariasis in beef calves in Pandak, Indonesia: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND

Toxocariasis, caused by Toxocara vitulorum, is economically detrimental to beef calves. Despite its potential impact on cattle productivity, toxocariasis remains underrecognized by local farmers in Bantul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

AIM: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with toxocariasis in beef calves in the Pandak subdistrict of Bantul Regency, Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

METHODS

The study employed a cross-sectional design, and 175 beef calf feces samples were collected for analysis. Risk factors such as age, sex, breed, body condition score, feces consistency, type of cage, weaning age, number of beef cattle per cage, and cage flooring material were collected using a structured questionnaire. Eggs per gram of feces (EPG) were quantified using the McMaster technique, and the total EPG count was categorized as light, moderate, or heavy. Data were analyzed using univariate, bivariate, and multivariate methods with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 16.0 for Windows.

RESULTS

The prevalence of toxocariasis in beef calves in the Pandak subdistrict, Bantul Regency, Yogyakarta, Indonesia was 11.4%. Ages 1-3 months and 4-6 months are identified as risk factors for toxocariasis in beef calves.

CONCLUSION

Toxocariasis is an endemic parasitic disease in beef calves aged under 6 months in Pandak subdistrict of Bantul Regency, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Consequently, anthelmintic treatment should be routinely administered to beef calves aged below 6 months.