PREVALENCE AND RISK FACTORS OF Trypanosoma evansi INFECTION IN WATER BUFFALOES (Bubalus bubalis) OF UBAY, BOHOL, PHILIPPINES

Trypanosoma evansi, the cause of surra has a wide host range and extensive distribution in tropical countries. Buffaloes and cattle are most commonly affected in Southeast Asia resulting to serious economic losses due to reduced productivity and mortality. It has become a serious problem for the Philippines’ livestock industry. A cross-sectional study involving 85 farms and 130 water buffaloes was conducted in Ubay, Bohol where outbreaks of the disease had been reported, to determine the farm and animal prevalence, Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) of water buffalo raisers regarding surra, and risk factors of surra. Blood samples were collected to test for T. evansi antibodies and DNA using CATT/T. evansi and PCR assay, respectively. True farm prevalence was 25% and true animal prevalence was 16%. Risk factors identified were the following: distance of water buffalo from nearest other water buffaloes, goats and pigs; frequency of deworming; Body Condition Score (BCS); last year of calving; last time the water buffalo was used as draft animal; year the water buffalo was introduced in the farm; and number of hours the water buffalo was allowed to wallow in a day. It is suggested that a surra control program be established in Bohol.