Serologic detection of antibodies against Fasciola hepatica in native Korean goats (Capra hircus coreanae)

The purpose of this study was to determine a nationwide seroprevalence of Fasciola hepatica in native Korean goats (Capra hircus coreanae). A total of 464 blood samples were collected from the three geographical regions (northern, central and southern regions) of the country between November 2009 and August 2011. Sera were separated from whole blood following standard procedures and analysed with an ELISA to detect antibodies against F. hepatica. The positive samples were further classified as mildly, moderately and strongly positive. Out of 464 goat sera samples assessed, five (1.1%) were seropositive. From these, three (0.6%) were mildly positive, two (0.4%) were moderately positive while no samples were observed to be strongly positive. All the five positive animals were adults (≥ 2 year old) rather than young goats (< 2 year old). There was no significant difference in seropositivity between age and regions. In conclusion, this study determined for the first time the seroprevalence of F. hepatica infection in native Korean goats. The findings also provide an update on the status of F. hepatica infection and can serve as a foundation for future investigations on the significance of this parasite in Korea.