# High burden and multi-parasite profile of gastrointestinal infections in cattle from Limpopo District, Southern Mozambique: Epidemiology, risk factors, and One Health implications

## TL;DR

This study finds high rates of multi-parasite infections in cattle in Mozambique, highlighting the need for better control strategies and One Health approaches due to zoonotic risks.

## Contribution

The first multi-parasite epidemiological assessment of cattle in Mozambique, emphasizing One Health implications and risk factors.

## Key findings

- 88.5% of cattle had at least one GI parasite, with Eimeria spp. and Strongyle-type eggs being most common.
- Grazing in non-flooded areas and deworming reduced Fasciola and Strongyle infections but increased protozoan infections.
- Cryptosporidium, Giardia, and Fasciola pose zoonotic risks, requiring molecular studies to assess cattle's role as reservoirs.

## Abstract

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites significantly affect cattle productivity and animal health, especially in tropical regions where environmental and management conditions favor parasite survival. In Mozambique, most previous studies have focused on goats or individual parasite species, leaving crucial gaps in understanding multi-parasite burdens in cattle. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, diversity, and risk factors associated with GI parasites in cattle from the Limpopo district of southern Mozambique, applying a One Health lens due to the zoonotic potential of some parasites that circulate in cattle.

A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to May 2025 using 200 stool samples collected directly from cattle rectums. Samples were examined using Ritchie centrifugal sedimentation for helminths and protozoa and Ziehl–Neelsen staining for Cryptosporidium spp. Epidemiological data on grazing areas, deworming practices, and animal demographics were collected to identify risk and protective factors through Fisher’s test and odds ratios (OR).

Overall, 88.5% of cattle harbored at least one GI parasite. Eight parasite groups were detected: Eimeria spp. (49%), Strongyle-type eggs (46.5%), ciliates (29.5%), Paramphistomum spp. (18%), Fasciola spp. (11%), Cryptosporidium spp. (3.5%), Giardia spp. (2.5%), and Entamoeba spp. (1.5%). Grazing in non-flooded areas significantly reduced Fasciola spp. infection. (OR = 0.126) and Paramphistomum spp. (OR = 0.236), whereas deworming reduced Strongyle-type infections (OR = 0.366). Conversely, dewormed animals had higher odds of Eimeria spp. and ciliate infections, likely because ivermectin was ineffective against protozoa. Co-infections were common, particularly among adult animals.

This first multi-parasite epidemiological assessment in Mozambican cattle reveals a high burden of GI parasites, influenced by grazing conditions and suboptimal deworming practices. Avoiding flooded grazing areas, adopting coccidiostats, and implementing anthelmintic rotation are crucial for effective parasite control. Given the zoonotic relevance of Cryptosporidium, Giardia, and Fasciola, molecular studies are urgently needed to characterize circulating species and clarify the role of cattle as reservoirs. These findings provide essential evidence to strengthen veterinary surveillance and inform One Health interventions in southern Mozambique.