Canine coronavirus infection in dogs in Turkey: Virological and serological evidence

Abstract

In the present study, virological and serological investigations were performed to determine the presence and prevalence of Canine corona virus (CCoV) infection in dog population in Turkey. Sera samples were analyzed for specific antibodies against CCoV by indirect enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (i-ELISA) while leukocyte samples were inoculated onto monolayers of Madin Darby Canine Kidney permanent cell culture. The cells were examined for viral antigen by direct immunofluorescence (IF) test after third passage. CCoV seropositivity was found in 46 (24.46%) of 188 dogs by indirect ELISA while only one leukocyte sample (0.53%) was detected as antigen positive by IF. Seropositive and antigen identification results were considered as indication of infection. From the results of this study it can be concluded that CCoV infection is widespread in the Turkish dog population and the virus may be attributed to be one of the important viral agents in dogs. In conclusion diagnosis of CCoV is difficult because it can easily be mixed with respiratory, enteric and generalized infections by other viral, bacterial and parasitic agents, but diagnosis and the vaccine application are essential for the control and prevention of CCoV infections.