Molecular characterization and phylogeny of chicken anemia virus detected in broiler poultry flocks in Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

Precise diagnosis and precautionary measures for Chicken Anemia Virus (CAV) requires continuous surveillance of disease and understanding of local field CAV strains. The CAVs have been reported previously both in broiler chicken and layer birds in Pakistan; however, their molecular characterization is largely inadequate and requires continuous evaluation. In this study, sequencing and molecular analysis of specific regions overlapping VP1-VP2 and VP2-VP3 genes of CAV strain from outbreaks in broiler flock (n=45) were undertaken in the Punjab Province of Pakistan. The phylogenetic analysis clustered study strains of CAV in group II similar to those reported previously from China. These findings are helpful for an understanding of currently circulating strains of CAV; however, they require further analysis to intervene in necessary strategies to avoid future outbreaks in commercial poultry.