Prevalence and Risk Factors of Bovine Hemoparasites in Peri-Urban Dairy Farms of Kayes, Mali

The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors of bovine hemoparasites in peri-urban dairy farms of Kayes, Mali. Between June and September 2022, blood samples were collected from 150 cattle belonging to nine farms and examined using the Buffy Coat and Giemsa-stained smears. Results showed that 58.7 % of the animals were infected with Babesia spp. and 11.3 % with Trypanosoma spp., with 40 % co-infection between the two genera. A significant decrease in mean hematocrit (31 %) was observed in infected animals. Cattle drinking from the river and grazing for more than eight hours were the most infected. These findings highlight the endemic nature of bovine hemoparasites in Kayes and emphasize the need for integrated vector control and improved management of watering points to reduce their zootechnical and economic impact.