Seroprevalence of Avian Influenza in Guinea Fowls in Some Districts in the Upper East Region of Ghana

• DOI: 10.1002/vms3.70106
• Publication Date: 2024-10-30T14:50:54Z
• Authors: Albert Agyapong T...; Sherry Ama Mawuko...; Patrick Mensah Am...; Derrick Adu Asare; Benjamin Obukowho...
• Keywords: Seroprevalence; Guinea fowl

ABSTRACT The guinea fowl ( Numida meleagris ) holds significant agricultural importance in Ghana, particularly the Northern, Upper East and West Regions. Despite their economic cultural significance, fowls face a potential threat from avian influenza, global concern for its adverse impact on poultry populations. This study assessed seroprevalence of virus mature Region. A cross‐sectional survey was conducted three districts within Region April to June 2023. Blood samples were collected 397 that are over 4 weeks old, determined using ID Screen Influenza Antibody Competition Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). analysed demographic factors such as sex, age source birds, employing statistical methods establish associations. Among sampled fowls, 24.7% tested positive influenza antibodies, whereas 75.3% seronegative. Age did not show statistically associations with seroprevalence, but intriguing patterns observed. Adult exhibited higher (23.7%) compared growers (1.0%). birds showed no association, slaughter points demonstrated (11.6%) households (5.0%) live bird markets (8.1%). In conclusion, underscores monitoring implement effective control measures. presence antibodies suggests may contribute transmission recommends ongoing nationwide surveillance assess true prevalence across Ghana.