Some risk factors for Taenia solium cysticercosis in semi-intensively raised pigs in Zuru, Nigeria.

The prevalence of Taenia solium cysticercosis in live pigs and at post mortem was determined in the Zuru area of Kebbi State, Nigeria. Prevalence rates of 5.85% (n = 205) and 14.40% (n = 118), respectively, were obtained from live pigs examined by lingual palpation and post-mortem examination. There was a significant (p<0.05) association between sex and infectivity for meat inspection and a positive non-significant (p>0.05) relationship between age and infectivity. Human taeniosis was assessed by direct microscopy of stool samples from volunteers; a prevalence of 8% (n = 50) was obtained. Environmental (soil, water and water from washed vegetables) samples were analysed; one of the water samples and some soil samples were positive for taeniid ova. Of the pig-rearing households that responded to the questionnaire survey 93% (n = 100) allow their pigs to scavenge freely around residential areas and refuse dumps, 2% had epileptic patients and over 80% did not have knowledge on how T. solium infection is acquired and its public health significance. To obtain baseline data for effective control and possible eradication, there is the need for a serological and epidemiological survey of this significant parasitic zoonosis in the study area and other parts of Nigeria where pigs are reared and/or pork is consumed.