Gasterophilus intestinalis infections in horses in Belgium

Vet Parasitol. 1998 Jun 15;77(2-3):199-204. doi: 10.1016/s0304-4017(98)00106-x.

Abstract

Over a period of one year, from December 1995 to November 1996, larvae of Gasterophilus intestinalis were found in 193 horse stomachs (58%) of 330 that were examined in two Belgian slaughter houses. When August is excluded, 62% of the stomachs had bot larvae. No other Gasterophilus species were identified. The monthly prevalence ranged from 9% in August to 75% in November and December. The mean intensity of bot larvae varied from 8 in August to 29 in March, and the majority of the horses (67%) harboured less than 50 larvae. Prevalences and intensities were not affected by age, but mares were more frequently infected than stallions and geldings (P < 0.014). The mean size of the lesions increased from 1 cm2 to 17 cm2. The majority of the larvae were localised near the margo plicatus.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Belgium / epidemiology
  • Diptera* / growth & development
  • Female
  • Horse Diseases / epidemiology*
  • Horse Diseases / parasitology
  • Horses
  • Larva / growth & development
  • Male
  • Parasitic Diseases, Animal / epidemiology*
  • Parasitic Diseases, Animal / parasitology
  • Prevalence
  • Seasons
  • Stomach / parasitology
  • Stomach / pathology
  • Stomach Diseases / epidemiology
  • Stomach Diseases / parasitology
  • Stomach Diseases / veterinary*