Iraqi Journal of Veterinary Sciences

Abstract

The present study was carried out to describe some epidemiological facts of Myiasis infestations in cattle, so Staphylococcus aureus was isolated and identified from various infested sites with maggots during the period from February to September 2019, and it involved three districts (Shatt-Alarab, Al-Qurnah, and Al-Dyr) in the north of Basrah Governorate/Iraq. A total of 54 herds/owners were visited, with 150 of cattle were found to be infested with maggots and diagnosed from different sites of the animal body. The result was indicated that 31% (95%Cl, 26.9-35.4) of examined animals were infested with myiasis, and there were no significant differences detected between sex and ages of animal groups under study. Staphylococcus aureus was diagnosed using classical methods as morphological characteristics, physiological (coagulase tube method), biochemical tests and growth on selective medium as Mannitol Salt Agar (MSA) at a percentage of 32% (48/150). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed for amplification of the nuc gene in this isolated species indicated presence of nuc size (423) bp in comparing with ladder used. The study clearly states that myiasis is a serious threat to cattle populations, and that control measures must be recalled by veterinary and agriculture authorities. These measures should be forged to include using a trapping/catch system, applying effective treatment, spraying pesticides, and sterilizing male flies with radiation to inhibit producing offspring.