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Foot-and-mouth disease in Southern Ghana: occurrence and molecular characterization of circulating viruses
Mathias V Teye1, Teresa K Sebunya1, Elliot M Fana2
1Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Botswana, Private Bag 00704, Gaborone, Botswana.
Abstract:
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is considered to be endemic in Ghana. However, our knowledge of the local epidemiology of the disease is restricted by a lack of serological information and data for characterized viruses causing field outbreaks. In order to improve our understanding of the prevailing situation, this study was initiated to establish the FMD viruses (FMDV) circulating in the country. During 2016, sera (n = 93) and epithelia/oral swab (n = 20) samples were collected from cattle from four districts in Southern Ghana that experienced FMD outbreaks. Sera were analyzed using the PrioCHECK® FMDV non-structural protein (NSP) ELISA whereas the epithelia/oral swab samples were examined by virus isolation, antigen ELISA, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and sequencing of VP1 followed by phylogenetic analysis. Assay for antibodies against FMDV NSPs provided evidence of exposure to FMDV in 88.2% (82/93) of the sera tested. Serotypes O and A viruses were detected from clinical samples by RT-PCR and sequencing of VP1. Phylogenetic analysis of VP1 coding sequences revealed that the serotype O viruses belonged to the West Africa (WA) topotype and were most closely related to viruses from Niger and Benin, while the serotype A viruses clustered within genotype IV (G-IV) of the Africa topotype and were most closely related to viruses from Nigeria. This study provides useful information on FMDV serotypes and viral lineages that circulate in Ghana and West Africa that may aid in the formulation of effective FMD control strategies.
Insights
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is endemic in Ghana. This study identified FMD virus (FMDV) serotypes O and A in cattle, providing crucial data for disease control strategies in West Africa.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Epidemiology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is endemic in Ghana, but local epidemiological data and characterized FMD virus (FMDV) strains are scarce.
- Understanding circulating FMDV strains is essential for effective disease control and prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the FMD viruses (FMDV) circulating in Ghana.
- To characterize the serotypes and genetic lineages of FMDV strains involved in recent outbreaks.
- To provide data to support FMD control strategies in Ghana and West Africa.
Main Methods:
- Collection of sera (n=93) and epithelia/oral swabs (n=20) from cattle in Southern Ghana.
- Serological analysis using PrioCHECK® FMDV non-structural protein (NSP) ELISA.
- Viral detection and characterization via virus isolation, antigen ELISA, RT-PCR, and VP1 gene sequencing.
- Phylogenetic analysis of VP1 sequences to determine viral lineages and relationships.
Main Results:
- Antibodies against FMDV NSPs were detected in 88.2% (82/93) of cattle sera, indicating widespread FMDV exposure.
- FMDV serotypes O and A were detected in clinical samples.
- Phylogenetic analysis placed serotype O viruses within the West Africa (WA) topotype, closely related to strains from Niger and Benin.
- Serotype A viruses clustered within the Africa topotype, genotype IV (G-IV), showing close relation to Nigerian strains.
Conclusions:
- This study identified circulating FMDV serotypes O and A in Ghana, providing critical epidemiological insights.
- The identified viral lineages offer valuable information for understanding FMDV evolution and spread in West Africa.
- Findings can inform the development of targeted FMD control and vaccination strategies in the region.
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