Trends and Economic Consequences of Paramphistomosis: A Statistical Analysis from a Two-Year Abattoir Study

Abstract

Paramphistomosis is an emerging pathogenic disease of ruminants, inflicting severe economic losses on the livestock sector through reduced milk and meat production, weight loss, treatment costs, and high mortality, particularly in young animals. This study aimed to quantify the prevalence and economic impact of paramphistomosis in cattle and buffaloes slaughtered in the Lahore district. A comprehensive two-year abattoir survey (January 2023 – December 2024) was conducted, recording monthly condemnation data. Statistical analysis revealed a highly significant disparity (Mann-Whitney U test, p < 0.001) in infection rates between species, with buffaloes exhibiting a markedly higher overall prevalence (22.99%) compared to cattle (8.41%). A powerful seasonal pattern was identified (Kruskal-Wallis H Test, p < 0.001), with infection rates peaking dramatically during the monsoon season (July-October), exceeding 41% in buffaloes. This fluctuation was strongly correlated with environmental conditions. Crucially, no significant temporal trend was found (p > 0.8), indicating stable, endemic disease levels. Direct economic losses from organ condemnation alone amounted to several thousand crore Pakistani rupees annually. When combined with indirect losses from an estimated 20-30% reduction in milk yield, weight loss, mortality, and treatment costs, the total economic burden is profound. The findings underscore the endemic nature of paramphistomosis and highlight the ineffectiveness of current control measures. The study concludes with urgent recommendations for implementing strategic deworming programs aligned with seasonal epidemiology, promoting integrated parasite management, and enhancing farmer education and veterinary infrastructure to mitigate these substantial losses and secure Pakistan's agricultural economy.

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