Abstract

Objective: To determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of gastrointestinal and liver parasites in yak in the cold desert area of the Mustang District, Nepal. Methods: Fecal samples were collected over a period of three months from 96 yaks from the high Himalayan District of Mustang, Nepal. The samples were tested for the presence of parasites by direct smear, sedimentation, and floatation techniques. Yak herders were surveyed with pre-tested questionnaires by participatory appraisals to explore their knowledge and awareness of parasitic diseases and health management. Results: Examination of fecal samples revealed that 82 were positive for one or more parasites, giving an overall prevalence of 85.42%, in which 6.25% had single and 79.17% had multiple parasitic infection. Animals with poor body condition scores and young age were more susceptible than their counterparts. Inferior body condition scores were attributed to parasitic burden. No significant difference was noted between worm burden and either the sex of the animal or the altitude. Conclusions: A high proportion of yaks in the lower Mustang Region of Nepal suffered from the mild to moderate parasitic infection, significant enough to contaminate the pasture and spread infection to healthy animals. Complementary studies are needed to establish the impact of parasitism on productive performance. Furthermore, nutrition and health management, including regular and strategic parasite monitoring programs are needed for better health and productivity.

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