Current Knowledge on Epizootic Haemorrhagic Disease in China

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Infectious Diseases
• Animal Health

Background:

• Epizootic haemorrhagic disease (EHD) is a viral disease affecting ruminants, transmitted by Culicoides biting midges.
• EHDV strains are prevalent in China, with various serotypes reported and isolated.
• The disease is a significant concern for animal health and was listed as notifiable by WOAH in 2008.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the distribution and studies of EHD in China.
• To analyze the genetic characteristics of circulating EHDV strains.
• To propose effective prevention and control strategies for EHD in China.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on EHDV distribution and studies in China.
• Analysis of reported EHDV serotypes and isolated strains, including genetic sequencing.
• Evaluation of developed diagnostic techniques such as ELISA, RT-PCR, qRT-PCR, LAMP, and liquid chip assays.

Main Results:

• Multiple EHDV serotypes (1-2, 5-8, 10) have been detected in China.
• Isolated strains of EHDV-1 show reassortment of western and eastern topotypes; novel strains like YNDH/V079/2018 were identified.
• Various diagnostic tools, including VP7 protein expression and ELISA, RT-PCR, and qRT-PCR methods, have been developed.

Conclusions:

• Effective EHD prevention and control in China require integrated strategies.
• Key strategies include controlling Culicoides populations and minimizing host-vector contact.
• Continued surveillance and advanced research are crucial for managing EHDV transmission.