Incidence of Bovine Cysticercosis in Kajiado County, Kenya

Abstract

Bovine cysticercosis is a common zoonosis whose prevalence is estimated at 50 million cases of infestation worldwide with economic losses in Kenya amounting to $1.289 million by 2003. This study investigated the incidence rate of bovine cysticercosis and taeniasis in Kajiado County and established cyst viability of isolated Cysticercus bovis. Method: A total of 468 carcasses from seven abattoirs were inspected according to Kenya Meat Control Act while cyst viability was tested using 40% Ox-bile diluted in normal saline. Results: An incidence rate of 2.56% for bovine cysticercosis and a cyst viability of 83% was recorded. Conclusion: The recorded incidence rate demonstrated that bovine cysticercosis is present in Kajiado County. Public health education on hygiene and strict enforcement of meat inspection rules and regulations are some of the measures that could curb the disease.