Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a highly contagious viral disease primarily affecting small ruminants such as sheep and goats, with considerable economic impacts due to livestock losses, reduced productivity, and decreased food security. This study investigates the seroprevalence of PPR antibodies in camels within Sokoto State, Nigeria, aiming to assess their role as incidental hosts in disease transmission among mixed-species farming systems. Using a competitive ELISA kit obtained from IDvet®, an overall seroprevalence of 18.3% was obtained (n/60). No significant association was found between seroprevalence and age, sex, or location. Comparisons with other African and global studies indicate varying seroprevalence rates, influenced by regional factors such as herd management practices and climate. Findings from the study indicated that camels in the study area have PPR antibodies circulating, which is crucial for cross-species transmission risks. These findings also highlight that camels, while not primary hosts, may contribute to PPR maintenance, particularly in regions where interspecies contact with small ruminants is common. Seasonal variation was observed, with higher seroprevalence during the rainy season. It was recommended that the possibility of including camels in vaccination efforts to substantially reduce the risk of cross-species transmission should be looked at. Further research to determine the role of camels in the transmission dynamics of the disease should be carried out toward global eradication of PPR by the year 2030.
Key words: Peste des Petits Ruminants, Seroprevalence, Camels, ELISA, Sokoto.
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