OCCURRENCE AND DISTRIBUTION OF CALF DIARRHEA DUE TO Escherichia coli AND Salmonella AND IT’S ASSOCIATED FACTORS IN THREE WOREDAS OF WEST HARERGHE, OROMIA REGION, EASTERN ETHIOPIA

Abstract

Calf diarrhea remains the major health challenges in cattle herds and is the most common cause of morbidity and mortality in neonatal calves. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Three Woredas of West Harerghe from October 2022 to March 2023 with the objectives to identify salmonella and E. coli infection in diarrheic calves, to assess associated risk factors for occurrence of calf diarrhea, and to assess the young stock management practices and knowledge gaps of livestock producers. Identification of the bacteria was confirmed on the basis of their morphology, staining, cultural and biochemical tests. From the total of 98 fecal samples examined, 60 (61.22%) were found to have at least one case of calf diarrhea. The prevalence of only E. coli was 37.75%, only Salmonella was 6.12% and mixed infection with the two bacteria was 17.35%. Based on Chi-square analysis results, factors such as; Breed, feeding time of colostrum, Calving location, Teat size, Naval treatment and Herd size were significantly associated with Calf diarrhea(p< 0.05) but on multivariable logistic regression analysis study area and feeding time of colostrum were found significantly associated (P<0.05) with calf diarrhea. Thus the odds of being positive for diarrhea was higher in calves fed > 12 hours (OR=9.3; 95%CI= 2.889-30.00; p=0.000). Furthermore, data regarding the management of the farms were generated through pretested questionnaire and direct observations. Calves reared in extensive system of management were the most susceptible (73.5%) while those reared under semi intensive system of management extensive system were least susceptible (26.5%) to bacterial scours. Therefore Based on those findings, calf diarrhea was found to high and could affect dairy production and it can be controlled through improved management practices as well as selected drugs to minimize the problem.