A rapid method for detection of Bhanja virus in infected ticks

A rapid method has been developed to detect Bhanja virus in experimentally infected Hyalomma asiaticum ticks by an indirect hemagglutination test. The titer of viral antigen is suspensions prepared from infected ticks ranged from 1:640 to 1:2,560; the antigen was demonstrated in both unfed and engorged ticks during an observation period from 2 weeks to 5 months after infection. The test is simple, easily reproduced, highly sensitive and specific, and may be useful for field studies with Bhanja virus.