Seroprevalence of Newcastle disease virus antibodies in village chickens in the three senatorial zones of Plateau State, Nigeria

The most common cause of death in village chickens is Newcastle disease (ND). A study was conducted to evaluate the seroprevalence of ND in the three senatorial zones of Plateau State using the haemagglutination inhibition (HI) test. Blood samples were collected from 389 village chickens of various ages and sexes that were maintained on extensive system of management in nine Local Government Areas (LGAs) across the three Senatorial zones. The overall seroprevalence of ND virus antibodies in village chickens was found to be 36.8% which differed statistically (p > 0.05) between LGAs, with the highest prevalence of 8.7% (CI: 6.3–11.9) and lowest prevalence of 1.5% (CI: 0.7–3.3) in Bokkos and Qua’an Pan LGAs, respectively. Also, seroprevalence of NDV antibodies differed significantly (p > 0.05) between the three senatorial zones, with 17.5% (CI: 14.0-21.6) in the Northern senatorial zone and 6.7% (CI: 4.6-9.6) in Southern senatorial zone. In the three senatorial zones of Plateau State, this study found prevalence of ND virus antibodies in village chickens. There is a need to increase awareness regarding the importance of vaccinating village chickens to protect them

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) prevalence and exposure factors associated with seropositivity of cattle in north-central, Nigeria

This study was designed to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with foot-andmouth disease (FMD) seropositivity in north central, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was undertaken from February 2013 to April 2014 using 1206 sera from 150 herds collected by multi-stage and random sampling methods. Pre-tested questionnaire were also administered to participating farmers to collect information on the animal herd structure, movement pattern, management system and herds contact at watering points. Samples collected were tested for evidence of FMD antibodies using the 3ABC nonstructural antibodies enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The overall seroprevalence of FMD in North-Central Nigeria was found to be 70.98% (95% CI: 68.37-73.49). FMD seroprevalence was found to be higher in Niger State 85.4% (95% CI: 83.46-88.03) relative to Plateau State 54.2% (95% CI: 50.12-58.16), which was statistically associated with FMD seropositivity (P<0.05). Risk factors such as sex, management system, trans-boundary crossing and herd mixing at the watering point were found to be statistically associated with FMD seropositivity (p<0.05). This confirms that FMD is enzootic in the study area and control of foot and mouth disease in Nigeria using animal movement control and vaccination is therefore advocated.Keywords: Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), prevalence, endemic, serotypes, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), antibodie

Seroprevalence of African swine fever in free range pigs In Taraba State, Nigeria

A cross-sectional survey was carried out in two Local Government Areas of Taraba State between the months of March to June, 2007, to asses the serological evidence of African Swine fever (ASF) virus antibodies in free range pig population. Extensive herds of pigs were targeted for this study, and a convenient sampling technique was employed based on the availability of pigs population as well as farmer’s willingness to allow their animals to be bled. A total of 304 blood samples were collected from apparently healthy pigs. Sera were tested using Blocking Enzyme linked Immuno Assay (B-ELISA).There was an overall seroprevalence of 48.7% (95% CI: 43.09- 54.3). Seroprevalence based on different locations showed a significantly (p<0.05) higher prevalence of ASF 61% (95% CI: 54.9-66.9) in Wukari LGA than 26% (95% CI: 15.3-39.4) in Karin Lamido LGA. Seropositivity based on sex revealed a higher seroprevalence in females 50.4% (95 %:( CI 44.3-56.5), than in males 40% (95%: CI 27.2-54.0). This study has shown that ASF is enzootic in free-range pig population in Taraba State which entails a potential danger to pig production with its attendance negative impact on food security and means of livelihood. We recommend an ASFV ecological study to unravel the factors responsible for continues circulation and maintenance of the virus in Nigerian pig population

Participatory epidemiological survey of foot-and-mouth disease among some cattle diseases in some pastoral communities of Niger, north central, Nigeria

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is known to cause significant financial losses, making it a threat to the livelihood and food security. Disease surveillance in pastoral areas are often difficult because human populations are relatively small and highly mobile, and requires considerable flexibility and commitment. Participatory epidemiological approach was used to assess relative burden, seasonality and perceived risk factors of FMD among other important cattle diseases in cattle population of pastoral communities of North-central, Nigeria. Nine pastoral communities and three key informants from each community were purposively selected for the survey between January and December 2014. Participatory rural appraisal tools were used for participatory exercises. Kendall’s Coefficient of Concordance W statistics was used for statistical analyses. Mean proportional piles (relative burden) of FMD (Boru,Chabo) was 17.2%, and pastoralists’agreement on the piles was strong (W=0.6855) and statistically significant (P<0.001). Key informants’ perceived risk factors for FMD were: keeping healthy cattle with sick ones (17.2%), high cattle density (16.8%), grazing cattle in areas of FMD outbreaks (12.4%), long distance trekking (10.3%), giving out cattle as gift or payment for dowry (8.2%), and cattle rustling (4.9%). The key informants agreement on the risk factors was strong (W=0.8372) and statistically significant (p<0.01). FMD occurred in all seasons, but more in late rainy season (Damina) and less in late dry season (Rani). Agreement on FMD seasonal occurrence was strong (W=0.8719) and statistically significant (P<0.01). This survey revealed the relative burden and seasonal impacts of FMD in pastoral herds in North-central Nigeria. FMD surveillance, control and prevention programmes that take these factors into consideration will be beneficial to the livestock industry. The combined use of Participatory epidemiological techniques and clinical record of cases is essential for cost effective disease surveillance, reporting and control strategies in Nigeria.Keywords: Burden, FMD, Fulani pastoralists, Participatory Epidemiology, season, Nigeri

Seroprevalence of avian leukosis virus in local chickens in five live bird markets, Kaduna metropolis, North-western Nigeria

Avian leukosis virus is recognized as an important viral pathogen in the poultry industry, resulting in salient severe economic losses due to reduced production, uneven flock growth rates, reduced growth, and immunosuppression which predispose affected birds to other infections. This study examined the seroprevalence of avian leukosis virus (ALV) in local chickens (LC) in 5 different live bird markets (LBMs) in Kaduna Metropolis. A total of 276 sera were tested for ALV p27 antigen using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). An overall seroprevalence of 28.3% (78/276) was recorded in the study. At the market level, the seroprevalence of 35% (21/60), 30% (18/60), 32% (16/50), 28.6% (16/56), and 14% (7/50) were recorded for Sabon Tasha, Central market, Railway station, Kawo and Sokoto Road LBMs respectively. With regards to sex, female LC showed a significantly higher prevalence of 30.5% (46/105) compared to male chickens 26.9% (46/171) with no significant difference (P > 0.05) observed. This study established the presence of antigen to ALV in local chickens sold in LBMs. We recommend surveillance and further studies on the isolation, molecular characterization and pathogenicity of ALV in the study area

Isolation and serotyping of foot-and-mouth disease virus in cattle collected from north central, Nigeria

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a disease of socio-economic importance which affects cattle, swine, Sheep, goats, and more than 70 wildlife species causing loss of production and with high mortalities in the young animals.The aim of this study was to isolate and serotype foot-and mouth disease (FMD) viruses collected innorth central Nigeria, using the goat tongue cell line (ZZ-R 127). ZZ-R 127 cell line was used for the virus isolation and antigen Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for FMDV serotypes O, A, SAT 1 & SAT 2 was used for the serotyping of the viruses. The ZZ-R 127 continuous cell line yielded rapid results with cytopathic effect (CPE) within 24 hours post inoculation. FMD viruses were isolated from twenty samples (n=20) out of the twenty two (n=22) collected. Antigen capture ELISA (Ag-ELISA) revealed thirteen (n=13) strains of serotype O, three (n=3) strains of serotype A, and four (n=4) strains of serotype SAT 2 with no virus detected in two samples.Therefore, the use of ZZ-R 127 continuous cell line yielded rapid results within 24 hours of post inoculation compared to BHK-21 that may not give result at first passages. The ZZ-R 27 cell line is relatively easy to handle, maintain and cheaper for FMDV diagnosis in endemic countries like Nigeria, compared to bovine thyroid gland (BYT).This study has confirmed the suitability of ZZ-R 127 in the primary isolation of viruses from clinical specimens with less turnaround time to generate results. Therefore, for rapid sensitive and specific laboratory assays, the use of ZZ-R 127 and Ag-ELISA for FMD diagnosis in endemic countries is strongly recommended.Keywords: Isolation, Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus, field samples, cytopathic effect, Nigeri

Incursion of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) Serotype O East Africa Topotype -3 (O/EA-3) in Nigeria

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is an endemic transboundary animal disease that affects livestock health across most of sub-Saharan Africa. Since the first official report of FMD in Nigeria in 1924, serotypes O, A, SAT 1 and SAT 2 have been documented within the  country. Molecular epidemiology has been used to trace the origin of FMD outbreaks in the case of animal movement, inter-species transmissions and trans-continental introductions. Phylogenetic analyses of VP1 nucleotide sequences of the twelve isolates (n=12) provide evidence for the presence of type O/EAST AFRICA 3 (EA-3) in Nigeria. The epidemiological situation of FMD in Nigeria and other West African countries is further complicated by the emergence of the O/EA-3 lineage that is causing new outbreaks in the region in addition to the West Africa (WA) topotype that has been known to be in circulation in Nigeria and other parts of West African and  Central African regions. These recent development in west and central Africa, indicates the dynamic and complex nature of FMD epidemiology in the region and this is not un-connected to the nomadism in the region. In addition the un-restricted animal movement across the porous border in the region in search of pasture and water for their animal has contributed to the spread of diseases across  the region. From the results the phylogenetic analysis of the O/EA-3 has close identity and was closely related to O/EA-3 from the 2009 outbreak in Sudan. Therefore, based on these findings a sustained surveillance is required to yet understand the epidemiology of FMD  in West and Central Africa that will inform the type of vaccine and target areas in other to control the disease. The need to restrict animal movement across the border should be put in place and where necessary all animals that must move from one point to another  must have proper evidence of vaccine certification before it should be allow access into the area. Finally for effective FMD control, regional vaccination and surveillance should be advocated and it should be backed by law. The need to have FMD vaccination at national as well as regional FMD control policy is strongly advocate for effective FMD control in Nigeria and across the regions. Key words: Topotype, West African; FMD and Nigeri

Complex Circulation of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus in Cattle in Nigeria.

Nigeria is a large densely populated country in West Africa. Most of its livestock is raised in a pastoralist production system with typical long distance migration in search of water and feed. As the demand for animal products largely exceeds the domestic production, large numbers of livestock are imported from neighboring countries without sanitary restrictions. In Nigeria, foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) serotypes O, A, and Southern African Territories (SAT)2 are endemic for a long time. Clinical outbreaks of FMD due to serotype SAT1 are described again since 2015, after an absence of more than 30 years. Historically, outbreaks of FMD due to serotypes O, A, SAT1, and SAT2 were each time associated with trade of cattle entering Nigeria from neighboring countries. In the present study, tissue samples from 27 outbreaks of FMD were collected in Nigerian cattle from 2012 until 2017 in six different States and in the Federal Capital Territory. FMDV was isolated and serotyped and further characterized by VP1 sequencing and phylogenetic analysis to gain more knowledge on FMDV circulation in Nigeria. Half of the outbreaks were characterized as FMDV topotype O/EA-3, while outbreaks with other serotypes and topotypes were-in descending order-less prevalent: A/Africa/G-IV, SAT1/X, SAT2/VII, and O/WA. The high dynamics and omnipresence of FMD in Nigeria were illustrated in Plateau State where FMDV serotypes O, SAT1, and SAT2 were isolated during the course of the study, while at some point in the study, outbreaks due to FMDV serotype A were observed in three remote States. The genetic and phylogenetic analysis suggests a mixed origin of FMD outbreaks. Some outbreaks seem to be caused by sustained local transmission of FMDV strains present in Nigeria since a number of years, while other outbreaks seem to be related to recent incursions with new FMDV strains. The role of African buffaloes in the etiology of FMD in Nigeria is unclear, and sampling of wildlife is needed. The results of the present study suggest that systematic sample collection is essential to understand the complex concomitance of FMDV strains in Nigeria and essential to support the implementation of a vaccination-based control&nbsp;plan.</p

A retrospective study of viral skin diseases of cattle, sheep and goats in Plateau State, Nigeria

Viral skin diseases namely lumpy skin disease (LSD), bovine papilloma (BP), goat pox (GTP) and contagious ecthyma (CE) have been reported in Plateau State, but our search through literatures did not reveal any documented prevalence rates of these diseases. A retrospective study of LSD, BP, GTP and CE was carried out based on Jos abattoir (2005-2016) and laboratory records of National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom, Nigeria (2010-2016). Based on the Jos Abattoir records, the prevalence rates were as follows LSD: 0.13% and BP 0.5% in Cattle. The prevalence of CE was 4.2%in sheep and 3.6% in goats. While LSD was diagnosed only in 2005, 2008 and 2016, BP was diagnosed every year except 2013, 2015 and 2016. Comparatively, CE was diagnosed in every year and month of the period reviewed. The analysis of records revealed that 11 samples were submitted for lab confirmation from suspected cases of LSD, 45.4% of which were positive by PCR. Additionally, 10 samples submitted for lab confirmation from suspected cases of GTP and 40% of the samples analyzed were positive by PCR. Of the 11 samples submitted for lab confirmation of CE, 36.4% of samples were confirmed to be CE by PCR. The laboratory results validate the Jos abattoir records which confirm that LSD, GTP and CE occur in Plateau State, Nigeria.Keywords: Abattoir, Plateau State, Prevalence, Retrospective, Viral skin disease