Haematopinus Suis (lice) Infestation of Swine in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria

Victor Ishaya, Natala Audu Joseph, Agbede R.I.S.

Abstract
Abstract
The aim of this study is to establish the prevalence of lice of swine in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria and to document the extent to which lice infestation poses problems to swine farmers. A six month study duration (July, 2009 to December 2009) during which 310 lice were collected from pigs using brushing and picking with forceps. The picked lice were placed in vials containing 70% alcohol. The specimens were identified by light microscopy. A total of 288 pigs from the only organised slaughter slab were investigated, and a total of 102 (35.4%) were infested with the hog louse (Haematopinus suis ). 74 (37.0%) of 200 sows and 18 (20.5%) of 88 boars were infested. Heavy infestations were observed in the months of November and December. This is the first documented report of lice infestation in pigs from this part of Nigeria. This research has shown an appreciable high prevalence of hog lice and the urgent need for its control due to its pathologic effects and its incrimination in African swine fever.

Key words: Haematopinus suis, infestation, swine, Makurdi, Nigeria