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A bovine herpesvirus isolated from sheep.
Summary
A novel herpesvirus was identified in sheep with respiratory illness. This bovine herpesvirus 1 isolate highlights a potential cross-species infection risk in livestock.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Animal Pathology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Respiratory disorders in lambs can be caused by various viral agents.
- Herpesviruses are known pathogens with significant impact on animal health.
- Bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV-1) primarily affects cattle but has implications for other species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize a viral agent isolated from a lamb with respiratory disease.
- To determine the etiological agent responsible for the observed respiratory symptoms in sheep.
- To investigate the potential for cross-species transmission of herpesviruses.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and purification of the viral agent from affected lamb trachea.
- Characterization of physical and chemical properties (DNA presence, ether sensitivity, acid/heat lability).
- Analysis of cytopathic effects in cell cultures.
- Neutralization assays using antiserum against bovine herpesvirus 1.
Main Results:
- A viral agent with characteristics of the herpesvirus group was isolated.
- The isolate demonstrated typical herpesvirus properties: DNA in virion, ether sensitivity, acid and heat lability.
- Cytopathology confirmed a herpesvirus infection.
- Neutralization with BHV-1 antiserum indicated the isolate is BHV-1.
Conclusions:
- The isolated agent is identified as bovine herpesvirus 1.
- This study reports the first instance of bovine herpesvirus infection in sheep.
- The findings suggest a potential for BHV-1 to infect and cause disease in sheep, indicating cross-species transmission.