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Serotype identification and VP1 coding sequence analysis of foot-and-mouth disease viruses from outbreaks in eastern
L Kasambula1, G J Belsham, H R Siegismund
1Molecular Biology Laboratory, Institute of Environment and Natural Resources, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
Abstract:
In April 2008, foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks were reported in Kamuli district of the eastern region of Uganda. Soon after lifting the quarantines in this area, further FMD outbreaks were reported in northern Uganda, which spread to more than 10 districts. The aim of this study was to identify the serotype and compare the variable protein (VP)1 coding sequences of the viruses responsible for FMD outbreaks during 2008 and 2009, to trace the transmission pathways of the disease in Uganda. Probang and epithelial swab samples were collected from cattle with clinical signs of FMD in the two regions, and the presence of FMDV RNA in these samples was determined using a standard diagnostic RT-PCR assay. From the total of 27 positive samples, the VP1 coding region was amplified and sequenced. Each of these sequences showed >99% identity to each other, and just five distinct sequences were identified. BLAST searches and phylogenetic analysis of the complete variable protein (VP)1 coding sequences revealed that they belonged to serotype O, topotype EA-2. The close similarity between the virus sequences suggested introduction from a single source. We therefore conclude that FMD in the northern region of Uganda was most likely introduced from the outbreak in the eastern region across Lake Kyoga through movement of live animals. This has significant implications for the effectiveness of the current FMD control measures.
Insights
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks in Uganda were caused by serotype O, topotype EA-2. The study suggests FMD spread across Lake Kyoga via animal movement, impacting control measures.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Epidemiology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks occurred in eastern and northern Uganda in 2008.
- Subsequent outbreaks spread to over 10 districts, necessitating investigation into the causative agent and transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the FMD virus (FMDV) serotype responsible for the 2008-2009 outbreaks in Uganda.
- To analyze the viral sequences to understand transmission pathways and origins.
- To inform FMD control strategies in the region.
Main Methods:
- Sample collection: Probang and epithelial swabs from cattle exhibiting FMD clinical signs.
- Viral RNA detection: Standard diagnostic RT-PCR assay.
- Sequence analysis: Amplification and sequencing of the VP1 coding region, followed by BLAST searches and phylogenetic analysis.
Main Results:
- FMDV RNA was detected in 27 positive samples from cattle in both eastern and northern Uganda.
- Sequencing of the VP1 coding region revealed >99% identity among samples, with only five distinct sequences identified.
- Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the virus belonged to serotype O, topotype EA-2.
Conclusions:
- The genetic homogeneity of the FMDV strains suggests a single introduction event.
- FMD in northern Uganda was likely introduced from the eastern region outbreak via live animal movement across Lake Kyoga.
- Current FMD control measures may need re-evaluation given the identified transmission routes.
