Fasciola hepatica in goats from north-western Spain: Risk factor analysis using a capture ELISA

•A high prevalence of Fasciola hepatica is reported in goats from north-west Spain.•Breed is the most determining factor for caprine F. hepatica infection.•Seroprevalence was significantly lower in autochthonous breeds than in crossbred goats.•Significant differences in prevalence were observed with age.•Breed and age should be considered in F. hepatica control programs in goats. In order to study the seroprevalence of Fasciola hepatica infection in goats from north-western Spain, a total of 603 serum samples from 47 herds were tested using a capture ELISA (MM3-SERO). The identification of risk factors was assessed by a mixed-effects logistic regression analysis. The results showed that F. hepatica is widespread in this area with 57.4% of the herds and 22.7% of the animals testing positive. Breed and age were identified as determining factors for caprine F. hepatica infection. Seroprevalence in cross-bred animals was significantly higher than in the autochthonous Cabra Galega breed. A significantly higher seroprevalence was observed in older animals. The use of locally adapted breeds and the implementation of suitable management practices could provide a substantial improvement over the current F. hepatica control measures carried out in goat herds and should be considered when designing new F. hepatica control programs.