Rinderpest epidemic in wild ruminants in Kenya 1993-97

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Wildlife Epidemiology
• Pathogen Dynamics

Background:

• Rinderpest epidemics can significantly impact wildlife populations.
• Understanding viral lineage and pathogenicity is crucial for disease control.
• East Africa experienced a severe rinderpest outbreak between 1993 and 1997.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the characteristics of the 1993-1997 rinderpest epidemic in East Africa.
• To identify the affected species, viral lineage, and epidemiological factors.
• To assess the impact on wildlife and domestic animal populations.

Main Methods:

• Histopathological examination of affected animals.
• Serological testing, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and virus isolation.
• Epidemiological analysis of population data and disease spread.

Main Results:

• Buffalo, eland, and lesser kudu showed high susceptibility and mortality (up to 80% in buffalo).
• The causative virus belonged to lineage II, distinct from recent isolates, and was related to a 1960s Kenyan strain.
• Cattle exhibited mild disease with minimal mortality; wildlife played a role in spread but not as reservoirs.

Conclusions:

• The epidemic highlighted the vulnerability of wild ruminants to rinderpest.
• Wildlife served as sentinels, indicating the virus's significant impact and spread dynamics.
• Distinct viral lineages necessitate ongoing surveillance and targeted control strategies.