Journal of Veterinary Parasitology

In the present study, the prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites in poultry from India was estimated using systematic review and meta-analysis. The prevalence studies (n=27) reported during 2008-2021 were collected using online and offline databases, and used for meta-analysis with the help of meta package in R-Software. The prevalence of GI parasites was estimated as 58% [95% level, confidence interval (CI) 48-68%, prevalence interval (PI) 12-93%] based on 10,418 samples. Among the states, a higher prevalence of GI parasites was observed in Maharashtra (84%) and lowest in Telangana (13%). Among the parasite classes, a higher prevalence of GI parasites was observed for protozoa (35%), followed by nematodes (22%), cestodes (19%) and trematodes (2%). Among the GI parasites, higher prevalence was observed for Eimeria species (34%), Raillietina species (24%) and Ascaridia galli (23%). Thus, the higher risk zones, states, parasite classes, sample types, and species of GI parasites identified in the present study will help the stake holders and policy makers in deciding the preventive strategies.