Serological and Molecular Surveillance of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease in Nigeria

Abstract

Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease (RHD) is caused by Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV) and has global mortality rate of 80-100% in rabbits. In Nigeria, it was first reported in Kwara State in 2020 despite speculations that RHDV has been seen earlier. Rabbit meat is a significant source of protein and the production venture confers economic stability especially in developing countries including Nigeria; an emerging novel infection like RHD therefore pose a challenge to food security. The aim of this investigation is to determine the serological and molecular evidence of RHDV circulation in the Nigeria. A total of 3832 sera and 119 tissue samples were collected across
25 states in 6 geopolitical zones in Nigeria within 4 weeks period from November to December 2020. This samples were analyzed using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent and Real time reverse transcriptase assays. A total seroprevalence of 2.82 % (108/3832) was recorded. The RHDV antibodies were most frequently found in the rabbit population in Ekiti State (11.74%), whereas Akwa Ibom State has the lowest prevalence (0.51%). South West had a prevalence of 6.58 % while to South-South had 0.66 %. All tissue samples tested negative for RHDV2 VP60 gene. Our findings show that RHDV antibody is present in the rabbit population across all of Nigeria's geopolitical zones. Vaccinations should be encouraged to prevent infection and manage the spread of RHDV and lessen the anticipated socioeconomic effects of rabbit hemorrhagic disease.