Sero-epidemioloical survey on African horse sickness virus among horses in Khartoum State, Central Sudan.
- Journal Article
Summary
This research investigated the prevalence and risk factors of the African horse sickness virus (AHSV) among various breeds of horses in central Sudan and found a high prevalence rate and certain risk factors.
Introduction
The research focuses on the African horse sickness virus (AHSKV), a deadly non- contagious virus, transmitted by insects that severely impacts certain breeds of Arabian horses. This study was carried out specifically in Khartoum State, located in central Sudan, to assess the commonality or prevalence of the AHSV and to identify the associated risk factors.
Methodology
- 320 horses from different breeds from four different localities in central Sudan were included in the study.
- Blood samples were taken from these horses and were analyzed for presence of AHSV-specific immunoglobulin G (Ig G) antibodies using a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) method. The Ig G antibodies indicate the body’s immune response to the virus.
Results
- Out of 320 horses, 275 showed positive results for AHSV Ig G antibodies, indicating a prevalence rate of 85.9%. This high percentage suggests a widespread presence of the virus amongst the horse population.
- Risk factors were identified and statistically linked to the presence of AHSV. Specifically, the breed of the horse and the activity level of the horse were significantly associated with the virus.
Conclusion
Due to the high prevalence rate, the research concludes that there is a need for a continuous surveillance for AHSV in central Sudan to prevent an outbreak of the disease. The identified risk factors should guide selective breeding and activity management to reduce the threat of AHSV.
Cite This Article
Publication
Researcher Affiliations
- Molecular Biology Laboratory (MBL), Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Khartoum, P.O. Box 32, Khartoum North, Sudan.
- Molecular Biology Laboratory (MBL), Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Khartoum, P.O. Box 32, Khartoum North, Sudan.
- Molecular Biology Laboratory (MBL), Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Khartoum, P.O. Box 32, Khartoum North, Sudan.
- Molecular Biology Laboratory (MBL), Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Khartoum, P.O. Box 32, Khartoum North, Sudan.
- Molecular Biology Laboratory (MBL), Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Khartoum, P.O. Box 32, Khartoum North, Sudan.
- Scientific Research Directorate, Al-Mughtaribeen University, Khartoum, Sudan.
- Molecular Biology Laboratory (MBL), Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Khartoum, P.O. Box 32, Khartoum North, Sudan. aradaib@yahoo.com.
- Scientific Research Directorate, Al-Mughtaribeen University, Khartoum, Sudan. aradaib@yahoo.com.
- EBH Scientific Research Laboratory, Zamzam University College (ZUC), Khartoum, Sudan. aradaib@yahoo.com.
MeSH Terms
- African Horse Sickness / epidemiology
- African Horse Sickness / etiology
- African Horse Sickness / virology
- African Horse Sickness Virus
- Animals
- Antibodies, Bacterial / immunology
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay / veterinary
- Female
- Horses / virology
- Immunoglobulin G / immunology
- Male
- Prevalence
- Risk Factors
- Seroepidemiologic Studies
- Sudan / epidemiology
- Surveys and Questionnaires
Conflict of Interest Statement
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