Research on the epidemiology of Eimeria alabamensis-coccidiosis following first turn-out on pasture

Abstract

The aim of this study was to obtain information about the epidemiology of pasture coccidiosis caused by Eimeria alabamensis. The research was set-up as a case-control study in which 30 case and 30 control-herds should have been sampled, the samples should have been tested for the occurrence of E. alabamensis both before and after first turn-out. As a result of several circumstances, no actual results could be gathered. Nevertheless, some striking observations were done: animals in a great range of ages tested positive and animals were also tested positive while stabled. It can be concluded that there is a need for further research, including further studying the presence and source of E. alabamensis in housed cattle.