Seroprevalence and associated risk factors of influenza D virus infection in cattle in the peri-urban areas of Dakar and Thiès, Senegal

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Résumé

Introduction Influenza D virus (IDV) is an emerging pathogen playing a role in bovine respiratory disease complex, contributing to significant economic losses in the livestock industry. Despite its global spread, the epidemiology of IDV in Senegal remains largely unexplored. This study aims to assess the seroprevalence of IDV and identify key factors associated with its infection in cattle within the peri-urban areas of Dakar and Thiès, Senegal. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted, with 168 cattle sampled from intensive, semi-intensive, and extensive farming systems. Blood samples were tested using hemagglutination inhibition assays to determine antibody titers against IDV. Logistic regression was employed to identify potential factors associated with the seropositivity of cattle in the study area. Results The results showed an overall seroprevalence of 31.5%. Larger herds (≥50 cattle) had a significantly higher seroprevalence (47.1%) compared to smaller herds (27.6%, p<0.05), while cattle from Senegal had a higher seroprevalence (53.3%) than imported animals (24.2%, p<0.05). In multivariate analysis, smaller herds and mixed-breed cattle were found to have lower risks of infection, while Senegalese-origin cattle exhibited a much higher risk of infection. Conclusion This study provided the first evidence of IDV circulation in cattle in Senegal, with herd size and animal origin being key factors influencing infection risk. Strengthened biosecurity measures and further research into genetic resistance are recommended to mitigate the spread of IDV in the region.

Mots-clés

Seroprevalence, Peri, Virology, Influenza A virus, Environmental health, Geography, Risk factor, Virus, Medicine, Veterinary medicine, Immunology, Serology, Antibody, Internal medicine, Influenza D virus IDV, Bovine respiratory disease, Peri-urban cattle farming, Senegal