Detection of equine herpesvirus antibodies in large‐scale donkey farms in Liaocheng area

Abstract

Abstract Background Equine herpesvirus (EHV) can cause respiratory, reproductive and neurological diseases in equine animals, including donkeys. The main pathogens responsible for these diseases are EHV type 1 (EHV‐1) and EHV‐4. In this study, we collected serum samples from 230 donkeys on 27 large‐scale donkey farms to detect EHV‐1 and EHV‐4 antibodies. We analyzed the presence of EHV antibodies based on region, age and season. Results Out of the 27 farms, 62.96% (17/27) tested positive for EHV. Of the 230 donkeys tested, 2.61% (6/230) were positive only for EHV‐1, 5.22% (12/230) were positive only for EHV‐4, and 4.78% (11/230) were positive for both EHV‐1 and EHV‐4. The highest percentage of positive donkeys (21.28%) was found in Dong'e County. The seropositivity rate among donkeys aged 1–4 years was significantly higher compared to the group of donkeys aged 0–1 year (p < 0.05). Additionally, the positive rate was significantly higher in fall and winter compared to spring and summer (p < 0.05). Conclusions Altogether, our findings indicate that large‐scale donkey farms in the Liaocheng area have a high prevalence of EHV antibodies. Since Liaocheng is an important donkey trading market in Shandong Province, it is crucial to consider the risk of disease transmission based on our test results. This will help in early detection and prevention of EHV outbreaks.

Keywords

• donkey
• equine herpesvirus
• EHV‐1
• seroprevalence