Effects of an experimental Trypanosoma congolense infection on the reproductive performance of West African Dwarf goats

Abstract Thirty-six West African Dwarf (WAD) goats were used to assess the effects of an experimental Trypanosoma congolense infection on their reproductive system. Estrous cycles were synchronised and when confirmed pregnant ( n =31), the does were randomly allocated into control and trypanosome-infected groups. After infection, the animals were carefully observed till parturition. Trypanosome infection caused an increase of rectal temperature, a significant drop in PCV (infected: 23.3±0.3%; control: 28.5±0.4%; P P T. congolense infection affected reproductive performance of WAD goats with abortions, premature births and perinatal losses being observed. Neither transplacental transmission of T. congolense nor histopathological lesions of the placenta could be demonstrated.