Vector Potential of Houseflies (Musca domestica) for Pathogenic Organisms in Jos, Nigeria

Abstract

A study was carried out to identify the bacterial pathogens as well as parasites present on both the body surface and intestines of houseflies (Musca domestica) in Jos metropolis. A total of 200 houseflies were collected from six random locations within the study area, and analyzed for the presence of bacterial pathogens and parasites using standard microscopy and culture. Eight parasites: Giardia lamblia (34.62%). Entamoeba histolvtico (l9.22%), Enterobius vermicularis (7.70), Taenia solium (15.39%), Ascaris lumbricoides (7.70%) Trichiuris trichiura (7.70%), Hymenolepis nana 3.84% and Strongyloides stercoralis (3.84%) were detected. Also, eight (8) bacterial pathogens: Escherichia coli (34.48%), Staphylococcus species ( 18.39% ),Streptococcus species (13.79%), Shigella species (\4.94 %), Salmonella species (6.90%), Klebsiella species (4.60%) Pseudomonas species (4.60%) and Proteus species (2.30%) were isolated and identified. The intimacy in relationship between these insects and man implies a probable transmission of pathogens to man by the flies, causing disease outbreaks; hence the need to step up control measures against the insects.