Seroprevalence of canine leishmaniasis in parts of sokoto state, northwestern nigeria

Dogs have been identified as the main reservoirs of Leishmania in many parts of the world and play a very important role in the maintenance of the parasite and its transmission to humans and other susceptible hosts. This study was conducted with objective of determining the seroprevalence of canine leishmaniasis in three selected Local Government Areas (Wamakko, Sokoto South and Kware) of Sokoto state, Nigeria. Blood samples were collected from 316 dogs and the separated sera were tested for Leishmania spp IgG antibodies using Indirect Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Total number of seropositive dogs was 11 showing overall seroprevalence of 3.5 % all from the adult dogs. Based on sex, female seropositive dogs account for 3.8% as against males (3.0%). Hunting dogs recorded higher seroprevalence (3.9%) compared to companion dogs (1.7%). There was no significant association between age, sex, use of dogs and seroprevalence of canine leishmaniasis (P > 0.05). Highest seroprevalence was recorded in Wamakko L.G.A (5.9%), followed by Sokoto South L.G.A (2.7%) and the lowest was recorded in Kware L.G.A (2.6%). There was statistically significant association (P < 0.05) between seroprevanlence of canine leishmaniasis and dog location in the three L.G.A. From this study, we have been able to show evidence of the presence of canine leishmaniasis in parts of Sokoto State, Nigeria. This poses serious possibility of increased risk of the disease transmission to both human and animal population in the study area.