A study of the host range and distribution of antibody to Akabane virus (genus bunyavirus, family Bunyaviridae) in Kenya

Abstract

Serum neutralizing antibody to Akabane virus (genus bunyavirus, family Bunyaviridae) was found in a high proportion (50–95%) of cattle sampled in Kenya, while sheep and goats had fewer positive (13–33%). Camel and horse sera also contained antibody to the virus (70% and 50% respectively). The antibody was found in animals from the high altitude temperate type of grasslands, drier bushed and wooded grasslands and the semi-desert. No arthrogryposisnor hydranencephaly has been encountered in Kenya which might be related to this widespread virus infection. A wide range of Kenyan wild ruminants had antibody to Akabane virus in their sera, as also did zebra. © 1985, Cambridge University Press. All rights reserved.