ISSN 2756-3871
International Journal of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health ISSN 2756-3871 Vol. 15 (3), pp. 001-013, March, 2024. Available online at www.internationalscholarsjournals.org © International Scholars Journals
Full Length Research Paper
Seroprevalence of rabies virus antibodies in dogs within FCT, Abuja
Tyohen T. R,1 Olabode H.O.K.,2 Ameh J.A.,3 Mailafia, S4 and Ramon- Yusuf, S.B5
1,2,3,4Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Abuja.
5Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Abuja. FCT.
Received January 30, 2024; February 24, 2024 and Published April 15, 2024
Abstract
Rabies is a deadly zoonotic viral disease of warm blooded vertebrates globally. This study was carried out to determine the seroprevalence of rabies virus antibodies in dogs using indirect ELISA. One hundred and eighty four (184) sera samples assayed from three Area councils (Gwagwalada, Kwali, and Kuje) randomly by balloting without replacement, adopting a cross sectional study design showed that 150 (81.5%) were positive and 34 (18.5%) were negative for rabies antibodies out of which 129 (83.7%) were previously vaccinated while 21 (70%) were not vaccinated. The distribution of breed, sex, age, location and vaccination history/status in relation to antibody titre showed more male dogs had more antibodies 82 (44.7%) among German Shepherd breed 57 (31.0%), within the age range 1-5yrs 92 (50%) especially in Gwagwalada 83 (45.1%) among vaccinated dogs 129 (70%) which was significant for vaccination status (P value < 0.05). This study suggests high level of vaccination awareness among dog owners within the study area with a small proportion of potential unvaccinated dog population at risk of rabies infection which can affect the increasing population following the incidence of dog bite. In conclusion, this study indicates evidence of rabies antibodies in both vaccinated and unvaccinated dogs. The study provided valuable information for public health authorities and policymakers involved in rabies control programs. Sustained public awareness campaign should be encouraged.
Keywords: Seroprevalence, Rabies Virus, Dog, ELISA, FCT, Nigeria.