Serological detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus H5N8 Circulated in Layer Flocks of Diyala Governorate/Iraq

Abstract

The current study was conducted in the College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Diyala from September 2021 to April 2022 to assess AIV seroprevalence. The samples processing and testing were done in the University of Diyala's virology laboratory. Serum samples (364) came from 8 probable AIV (H5N8)-infected commercial layer farms in four locations of Diyala Governorate. Serum samples were subjected to ELISA test using commercial ELISA kit that specific for IgG antibodies to AIV H5N8. Phenotypically, Different Clinical signs that related with a viral infection included, enlargement of the head, neck, and prominent edema of the face due to high infestation infection, followed by severe respiratory signs included, excessive lacrimation, sinusitis, severe rales, and cyanosis in all parts of unfeather skin predominantly the wattles. Results showed mean IgG antibody titers of 0.34433 ± 0.019451, 0.33880 ± 0.019184 , 0.38007 ± 0.026753 and 0.58764 ± 0.028425 for Baqubah, Kanaan, AL_Ghalibia and AL_Khales farms respectively of 70 days old layers. For 200 days old layers the mean titers of IgG appeared as0. 36257 ± 0.021811, 0.36762 ± 0.026392 , 0.53774 ± 0.026767 and 0.74236 ± 0.023195 for Baqubah, Kanaan, AL_ghalibia and AL_Khales farms respectively. According to the instruction manual of ELISA kit manufacturer and according to mean titers of layers in the farms of present study, all farms are infected with AIVH5N8 AIV strain.