Clinical, virological and serological responses of donkeys to intranasal inoculation with the KY-84 strain of equine arteritis virus.

This study explores the physical, viral, and immune reactions of seven female donkeys after being exposed to a strain of equine arteritis virus (EAV) that ordinarily shows noticeable symptoms in horses. The donkeys did exhibit infection and mild symptoms, but further research is necessary to understand the behavior of EAV in donkeys.

Overview of the Research

• This research investigated the responses of seven female donkeys to the KY-84 strain of equine arteritis virus (EAV). This particular strain is known to cause moderate to severe clinical signs in horses.
• The purpose of this study was to further the understanding of the pathogenesis of EAV in donkeys.

Findings on Clinical Signs

• The donkeys showed only mild symptoms such as a slight fever primarily occurring between 3-9 days after inoculation.
• Mild depression was noted in four of the infected animals and a minor nasal or ocular discharge was evidenced in three.

Virological Observations

• All donkeys in the study became infected with EAV. This became evident through the recovery of the virus for up to 14 days from the nasopharynx and buffy coat (layer of white blood cells).
• In three out of the four donkeys checked, the virus was also discovered in the cervix or vagina.
• The process of the virus multiplication within the donkey seemed similar to the pattern previously observed in horses infected with EAV.

Serological Response

• The donkeys demonstrated a ‘seroconversion’ by the tenth day after the inoculation – meaning their body had started producing detectable amounts of antibodies against EAV.

Conclusion

• The study indicates that donkeys can be infected by the virus and respond with mild clinical signs along with an immune response.
• However, the study also suggests that there is a need for additional research to understand the EAV pathogenesis in donkeys more fully.