ABSTRACT
In this study, we investigated and confirmed natural lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV) infection in Himalayan yaks (Bos grunniens) in Himachal Pradesh, India, based on clinical manifestations and results of genome detection, antibody detection, virus isolation, and nucleotide sequencing. Subsequent phylogenetic analysis based on complete GPCR, RPO30, and EEV gene sequences revealed that the LSDV isolates from these yaks and local cattle belonged to LSDV subcluster 1.2.1 rather than the dominant subcluster 1.2.2, which is currently circulating in India, suggesting a separate recent introduction. This is the first report of natural LSDV infection in yaks in India, expanding the known host range of LSDV. Further investigations are needed to assess the impact of LSDV infection in yaks.
Subject(s)
Lumpy skin disease virus , Animals , Cattle , Phylogeny , Base Sequence , India/epidemiology , Disease Outbreaks/veterinaryABSTRACT
Near a zoo in Bikaner, India, 2 free-ranging Indian gazelles (Gazella bennettii) displayed nodular skin lesions. Molecular testing revealed lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV) infection. Subsequent genome analyses revealed LSDV wild-type strain of Middle Eastern lineage. Evidence of natural LSDV infection in wild gazelles in this area indicates a broadening host range.
