Comparison of the Prevalence of Liver Fluke Infection in Native Cattle and Native Swamp Buffaloes in Luang Prabang Province, Laos

A study comparing the prevalence of liver fluke (Fasciola spp.) infection in native cattle and swamp buffaloes in Luang Prabang, Laos, found that younger animals aged 1-3 years had the highest infection rates, with no significant difference between species. The research analyzed 100 fecal samples from 50 cattle and 50 buffaloes across seven villages using the Benedek Sedimentation method and McMaster egg counting techniques. Results showed an overall prevalence of 12%, with 7% in cattle and 5% in buffaloes, highlighting that age rather than species was a key factor in infection risk. The findings suggest that free-range farming practices in paddy fields may contribute to transmission and warrant further seasonal and systemic studies.

Chanthakhoun, V., Suriyapha, C., Bounyavong, S., Vilaysac, V., Manivanh, N., & Wanapat, M. (2024). Comparison of the Prevalence of Liver Fluke Infection in Native Cattle and Native Swamp Buffaloes in Luang Prabang Province, Laos. Journal of Buffalo Science, 13, 158–162. https://doi.org/10.6000/1927-520x.2024.13.18