The Impact of Prevalence of Taenia Solium Eggs in Soil And Cysticercosis-Free Pigs In Zuru Local Government Area, Kebbi State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the prevalence of Taenia solium cysts in pigs and the presence of T. solium eggs in soil from freely roaming pigs in the Zuru district of Kebbi State, Nigeria. A total of 50 soil samples were collected from selected areas and examined for taeniid eggs using centrifugation and sedimentation techniques, while 24 pigs were inspected for cysticercosis following standard meat inspection procedures. No porcine cysticercosis was detected, as all pigs were free of cysts at the antemortem inspection. However, taeniid eggs were identified in 13 of the 50 soil samples (26%), suggesting potential environmental contamination that could pose a risk to both human and animal health. The presence of T. solium eggs in the soil indicates possible contamination from human feces and highlights the risk of infection and re-infection in pigs scavenging in these areas. This finding underscores the potential health hazard to pork consumers. The study recommends implementing strict control measures to reduce the transmission of T. solium in the region.