Serodiagnosis of schmallenberg virus infection in sheep in Nineveh governorate, Iraq

Abstract EN

Schmallenberg virus (SBV) is an emerging pathogen of sheep.

It is transmitted through arthropods vertically from dams to fetuses through the placenta.

As a result, it can cause prenatal defects that can result in abortion or death of the fetus, as well as sometimes the death of mothers due to complications following an abortion.

The study was conducted on 92 sera of local breed sheep (67 aborted ewes and 25 rams).

All sera were tested for Schmallenberg virus antibodies using a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent kit.

Results indicated that the overall prevalence of the Schmallenberg virus was 79.3 %.

The highest percentages of SBV seropositive animals were found in Mosul city, Wana, and Tel Usqouf at 100%, whereas Badoush reported the lowest percentage at 40%.

Additionally, there was a significant difference between the percentage of aborted ewes 85.07% and rams 64%.

The most frequent infection type was the severe one 55,43%, followed by the moderate 18.47% and mild 5.43% types.

In conclusion, the findings highlight the existence of a novel virus that significantly impacts ovine abortions.

So, these preliminary data can guide livestock producers in designing appropriate prevention and control measures.