Toxocara vitulorum infection in German beef cattle

Toxocara vitulorum is an ascarid that is frequently found in sub-tropical regions but little is known about infections in more temperate climates. In this study, we report the occurrence of this parasite in a beef cattle herd in eastern Germany. In June 2016, large (14–20 cm) cream-colored worms identified as adult T. vitulorum were observed in the feces of 2- to 3-month-old calves. Eggs of this parasite were subsequently detected in pooled fecal samples collected on all three farm sites. The morphological identification was supported by analysis of partial cytochrome c oxidase I and internal transcribed spacer 1 gene sequences. Clinical signs of toxocariasis, such as diarrhea and loss of body weight were not apparent.