Multivariate spatially structured variability of ovine parasitic infections

We take advantage of a Veterinary Epidemiology survey in the Campania region (Italy), 2004-2005, to develop a Bayesian approach to analyze the multivariate geographical distribution of four different sheep parasites. We specified a series of Multivariate hierarchical Zero Inflated Poisson models. The results were consistent with theoretical knowledge, quantified impact of common intermediate hosts (Fasciola hepatica and Paramphistomidae share the same species) and supported evidence of previously unknown ecological components (Dicrocoelium dendriticum was correlated to Fasciola and Haemonchus contortus was not found spatially associated with the previous parasites).