Serological Detection of H۹N۲ Avian Influenza Virus Antibodies in Cats: Prevalence and predisposing Factors.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVESThe objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence and antibody titers of H۹N۲ avian influenza virus in cats. Specifically, the study aimed to determine the relationship between antibody titer and factors such as the type of food, place of storage, and contact with other animals. The findings of this research shed light on the potential transmission and prevalence of the H۹N۲ virus in cats, emphasizing the significance of monitoring and preventive measures.MATERIALS AND METHODSBlood samples were collected from a total of ۷۵ cats, including those referred to the veterinary clinic of Shahid Bahonar University in Kerman, private clinics, and stray cats in the city. Serum was separated from the blood samples and stored in a freezer. The hemagglutination inhibition (HI) test was conducted to detect antibodies against H۹N۲ influenza A virus. The HI test involved diluting the influenza antigen in a series of wells and mixing the suspected sera from the cats with washed red blood cells and the antigen. The test plates were observed for hemagglutination, and the highest dilution exhibiting complete erythrocyte sedimentation was considered as the serum antibody titer.RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONOut of the ۷۵ tested samples, ۴۹ (۶۵%) displayed a positive antibody titer against the H۹N۲ influenza type A virus. Statistical analysis revealed significant associations between the antibody titer and factors such as the type of food (raw or cooked), place of storage (inside or outside the house), and contact with other animals. Cats fed raw food exhibited a higher positive titer (۶۷.۸۳%) compared to those fed cooked food (۷.۳۰%). Similarly, cats kept outside the house demonstrated a higher positive titer (۵.۷۹%) than those kept inside (۴.۳۸%). Moreover, cats with contact with other animals had a higher positive titer (۱.۷۴%) compared to those without contact (۲.۳۵%). These results indicate a potential prevalence of H۹N۲ influenza type A virus in cats. Furthermore, they highlight the influence of various factors such as diet, environment, and animal contact on the transmission and spread of the virus among cats. The higher positive titer observed in cats fed ۱۷۷raw food suggests a possible role of diet in virus exposure. Similarly, cats kept outside the house and those with contact with other animals are more likely to come into contact with the virus, leading to higher antibody titers. These findings underscore the importance of considering these factors in strategies aimed at monitoring and preventing the transmission of H۹N۲ influenza type A virus among cats.CONCLUSIONThe study demonstrated a notable prevalence of H۹N۲ influenza type A virus antibody in cats, indicating their potential susceptibility to the virus. The results reveals that significant factors such as diet, environment, and contact with other animals can influence the transmission of the virus among cats. To mitigate the risk of infection with H۹N۲ virus, proper dietary management, restricted contact with contaminated animals and better housing conditions should be implemented.

کلیدواژه ها:

H۹N۲ Avian Influenza ، Cats ، Antibody Titers ، Prevalence ، Transmission ، Diet ، Environment ، Animal Contact ، Monitoring ، Preventive Measures