Detection and molecular characterisation of sheep-associated malignant catarrhal fever in North Bengaluru, Karnataka Shyamsundar KA1, Rathnamma D1, Isloor S1, Chandranaik BM2, Sharada R1, Shivashankar BP2, Ranganatha S1, Suresh KP3, Patil SS3,* 1Veterinary College (KVAFSU), Hebbal, Bengaluru-560024, Karnataka, India 2Institute of Animal Health and Veterinary Biologicals (IAH&VB), Hebbal, Bengaluru-560024, Karnataka, India 3ICAR-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (NIVEDI), Bengaluru-560024, Karnataka, India *Corresponding author E-mail id: sharanspin13@gmail.com
Onilne Published on 8 March, 2024. Abstract This study focused on the molecular characterization and phylogenetic analysis of Malignant Catarrhal Fever (MCF) in north Bengaluru, Karnataka. The investigation of a suspected case involved a crossbred cow exhibiting symptoms indicative of MCF. Blood samples were collected not only from the affected cow but also from two nearby sheep. The detection process involved DNA extraction, PCR amplification, and a hemi-nested PCR method. Emphasis was placed on the specificity of the PCR technique and its endorsed utility for diagnosing MCF. While clinical manifestations mirrored MCF patterns, PCR validation played a pivotal role. The asymptomatic carriage of OvHV-2 in sheep, along with their direct contact with the infected cattle, underscored the transmission of the disease. Top Keywords Ovine gammaherpesvirus 2, Sheep, Carriers, Transmission, Hemi-nested PCR. Top |