Abstract

Background: Babesia infection in small ruminants especially in sheep can cause a wide range of clinical and laboratory presentations. Babesia ovis plays an important role in causing anemia and other hemotological changes in affected sheep. Aim: Therefore, the present study was conducted to analyze and compare hematological parameters between blood profiles of Nellore brown sheep naturally infected and uninfected with Babesia ovis, the main causative agent of ovine babesiosis. Material and Methods: The present study was carried out to record the haematological changes in Nellore brown sheep affected with babesiosis. Total 22 adult sheep were identified from a sheep flock (n=187), suffering with the clinical babesiosis. Microscopic examination of the stained peripheral blood smears confirmed the presence of Babesia organisms. Affected sheep showed fever, anorexia, suspended rumination, weakness, lethargy, haemoglobinuria and progressive emaciation. Results: Significantly reduced hemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell count, whereas significantly elevated total leukocyte count and eosinophil count were noticed. All the affected sheep were successfully treated with diminazene aceturate, oxytetracycline dihydrate, hematinic along with the electrolyte therapy. Conclusion: The Present study reveal that a significant reduction in erythrocyte count, hemoglobin concentration and PCV, a significant increase in total leukocyte count and eosinophil count in sheep affected with babesiosis.

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