Bovine hypodermosis: Prevalence and economic significance in southern Punjab, Pakistan

Prevalence and economic losses of warble fly infestation (WFI) in cattle and buffaloes were recorded in Dera Ghazi Khan and Rajan Pur districts of southern Punjab (Pakistan). A total of 18,000 cattle and 9000 buffaloes were examined in the field and slaughter house. Only one species of Hypoderma, i.e. Hypoderma lineatum was recorded from this area. The prevalence of WFI was higher in slaughter house versus field, cattle versus buffaloes, males versus females, and young versus old animals in both the districts. The highest month-wise prevalence was recorded in December and the lowest in July. Organ-wise prevalence of WFI was highest in oesophagus followed in order by rumen and spleen. The economic losses based on the value of warbled and warble-free hides were estimated as Rs. 22.8 million per annum (currency exchange rate is Rs. 57.5 = US$ 1).