Characterisation of recent foot-and-mouth disease viruses from African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) and cattle in Kenya is consistent with independent virus populations

• DOI: 10.1186/s12917-015-0333-9
• Publication Date: 2015-02-02T17:26:38Z
• Authors: Sabenzia Nabalayo...; Abraham Kiprotich...; Graham J Belsham; Kirsten Tjornehoj; Vincent B Muwanika; Francis Gakuya; Dominic Mijele; Hans Redlef Siegi...
• Keywords: Kenya

Understanding the epidemiology of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), including roles played by different hosts, is essential for improving control. The African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) a reservoir SAT serotypes FMD virus (FMDV). Large populations commonly intermingle with livestock in Kenya, yet earlier studies have focused on domestic livestock, hence contribution to largely unknown. This study analysed 47 epithelia collected from outbreaks Kenyan cattle between 2008 and 2012, 102 probang serum samples three ecosystems; Maasai-Mara (MME) (n = 40), Tsavo (TSE) 33), Meru (ME) 29). Antibodies against FMDV non-structural proteins were found 65 (64%) sera 44/102 53/102 also having neutralising antibodies directed 1 2, respectively. RNA was detected 42% RT-qPCR (Cycle Threshold (Ct) ≤32). Two positive VI identified as 2 Ag-ELISA, while latter assay O (1), A (20), (7) (19) epithelia. VP1 coding sequences generated two 21 samples. Phylogenetic analyses revealed lineages within that distinct those cattle. We O, A, circulating among Kenya cause disease, but only viruses successfully isolated clinically normal buffalo. isolates genetically obtained Control efforts should focus primarily reducing circulation limiting interaction Comprehensive incorporating additional are recommended.