Survey of parasite infections in dairy goats in Lombardy (Northern Italy)

The purpose of the study is to investigate gastrointestinal helminth infections in dairy goats and the risk factors associated with parasite infections regarding location, structure and management of farms. During a year, faecal specimens of 2553 female dairy goats were collected in 110 farms in prealpine and alpine areas; besides, a questionnaire survey was carried out to detect information about flock size and breeding management and about the animals. All farms were geo-referenced and spatial distribution was investigated, through a geographical information system (GIS). On faecal specimens, qualitative exams and individual faecal egg counts, using a modified McMaster method, were performed. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS 16.0 software. Prevalence and epg (eggs per gram of faeces) were calculated for each parasite: Strongylida (P=35.6%, mean epg 163.7±604.4), Skrjabinema sp. (24.7%), Strongyloides sp. (17.5%, 13.1±79.9), Nematodirus sp. (10.8%, 6.1±184.3), Trichuris sp. (10.4%, 6.2±32.4), Moniezia benedeni (7.6%) and Eimeria sp. (91.8%). Breeding system, flocks size, goat division in groups, altitude, use of grazing and season result the most significant environmental risk factors associated with the presence of parasites, whereas pregnancy and lactation the individual ones, being younger goats in first lactation and lactating females more vulnerable to parasite infections. The very high prevalence of Eimeria sp. in almost all farms and the presence of gastrointestinal nematodes across Lombardy suggest the importance of monitoring at a regional scale. The risk factors detected indicate the usefulness of setting out more correct practices in management associated with an adequate programme of anthelmintics treatments, although further surveys are required for monitoring parasite infections in goat farms.