Detection of seroconversion to West Nile virus, Usutu virus and Sindbis virus in UK sentinel chickens

Virol J. 2006 Sep 4:3:71. doi: 10.1186/1743-422X-3-71.

Abstract

We previously reported evidence of West Nile virus (WNV) circulation in UK birds, probably introduced by migratory birds from overseas. We now demonstrate WNV-specific seroconversion in sentinel chickens raised on an English farm. Maternal neutralizing antibodies to WNV in hatchlings declined within three weeks. During the following months, healthy chickens developed WNV neutralizing antibodies that were confirmed by immunoblotting and indirect immunofluorescence tests using WNV antigens. The proportion of seropositive chickens was higher for WNV than for Usutu virus or Sindbis virus. Attempts to isolate infectious virus or to detect viral RNA in the sera, failed.

MeSH terms

  • Alphavirus Infections / epidemiology
  • Alphavirus Infections / veterinary*
  • Animals
  • Antibodies, Viral / blood*
  • Bird Diseases / epidemiology
  • Bird Diseases / immunology
  • Bird Diseases / virology
  • Blotting, Western
  • Chickens*
  • Encephalitis Viruses, Japanese / immunology*
  • Flavivirus Infections / epidemiology
  • Flavivirus Infections / veterinary*
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence
  • Sentinel Surveillance
  • Seroepidemiologic Studies
  • Sindbis Virus / immunology*
  • United Kingdom / epidemiology
  • West Nile virus / immunology*
  • West Nile virus / isolation & purification

Substances

  • Antibodies, Viral