Seroprevalence and risk factors associated to West Nile virus in horses from Andalusia, Southern Spain.

Abstract

West Nile virus (WNV) is recognized as an emerging zoonotic pathogen, whose incidence in horses, humans and birds has increased significantly in different European countries in the last decade. A serosurvey study was carried out in non vaccinated horses to determine the geographical distribution of WNV in Andalusia (Southern Spain), and to assess the factors that influence the risk of WNV infection in horses. Antibodies to WNV were detected in 54 out of 510 horses analyzed by a blocking ELISA, of which 36 were confirmed by micro virus neutralization test (7.1%; CI(95%): 4.9-9.3). A total of 28 out of the 348 equine herds (8.3%; CI(95%): 5.4-11.2) had at least one seropositive animal. A generalized estimating equations model showed that the main risk factors associated to WNV seroprevalence were: number of horses within the holding (low), transport of the horse within the last six months (Yes) and presence of mosquitoes in the holding (Yes). The results demonstrated that WNV circulation in Andalusia was more widespread than previously reported. Besides, the distribution of WNV infections was not homogeneous as significant differences among provinces were observed. The results show the need to improve the active surveillance in Spain, so that the early detection of WNV circulation allows the establishment control measures such as vaccination and implementation of vector control programs during the risk period.