Bovine dermatophytosis in Holeta agricultural research center, Ethiopia

A cross sectional study was conducted at Holeta agricultural research center to determine the prevalence of dermatophytosis. The overall prevalence of dermatophytosis in a total of 384 animals was 167 (43.49%), as determined by using direct microscopic examination and culture isolation. There was difference in dermatophytosis infection rates among the cattle breeds examined, the highest being 86.49% in 25% Boran (BO) X 75% Holstein Frisian (HF) followed by 56.95% in 50% BO X 50% HF and 25% in 100% Jersey animals. The study also revealed a significant difference (χ2= 24.7359, P = 0.001) in infection rates among different age groups, the highest being in calves (62.28%) and lowest in old animals (25%). A significant difference was also observed between the season of the year and infection rates, the highest being in the wet (64.12%) season, when compared with the dry season (27.10%). However there was no significant difference in dermatophytosis infection rates in the different categories of body condition scores and with sex of the animals. The study presents the highest prevalence of dermatophytosis in the study area and warrants immediate action accordingly.