Detection of virus-neutralising antibodies and associated factors against rabies in the vaccinated household dogs of Kathmandu Valley, Nepal.

BACKGROUND: Rabies is a vaccine-preventable neglected tropical viral zoonosis. It occurs worldwide, creating a very heavy burden in many developing countries, including Nepal. Dogs are the principle vector for the transmission of this disease in urban areas. Vaccination is the most important preventive measure in areas where dogs are the principle source of infection. This study was conducted with the aim of detecting virus-neutralising antibodies and associated factors against rabies in vaccinated household dogs of Kathmandu valley. METHODS: Blood samples were collected from 110 vaccinated pet dogs in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur districts of Nepal. The samples were taken to the laboratory of the National Zoonosis and Food Hygiene Research Center where serum was separated. An indirect immune-enzymatic assay (PlateliaTM Rabies II kit ad usum Veterinarium, Biorad, China) was used for the detection of rabies virus anti-glycoprotein antibodies in the dog serum samples following the manufacturer's recommendations and instructions. Optical density values for unknown samples were compared with the positive sera titers in quantification tests obtained after a direct reading on the standard curve. Results were expressed as equivalent units per ml (EU/ml). FINDINGS: Of the total samples, 89.09% exceeded the required seroconversion level (≥ 0.5 EU/ml); another 9.09% did not reach the seroconversion level (0.125-0.5 EU/ml); and 1.81% had undetectable seroconversion levels (<0.125 EU/ml) suggesting that the animal had not seroconverted according to the PLATELIA™ RABIES II test. Only one factor, the condition under which the dog was kept, was significantly associated with the antibody titer level. No association was found for any of the other factors included in the study. INTERPRETATION: Vaccination is the most effective measure for prevention and control of rabies. The locally manufactured brand of vaccine, which is available in Nepal, is potent enough to generate a sufficient amount of protective antibodies, equal to international brands.

Sero-prevalence of leptospirosis and differentiation in blood parameters between positive and negative cases in dogs of Kathmandu Valley.

Background: Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease with worldwide distribution. It affects both humans and animals. Dogs may serve as a sentinel as well as a potential carrier for Leptospira infection in human. This study was conducted with the aim of investigating the sero-prevalence of leptospirosis, and differentiation in blood parameters in positive and negative cases of dogs. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out from August 2016 to December 2016 in Kathmandu valley. A total of 70 blood samples were collected from street dogs and tested against Leptospira infection using Immunocomb Canine Leptospira Antibody Test Kit. Results: Out of 70 blood samples tested, eight samples (11.4%) were positive. The average mean and SD of total leucocyte count of positive and negative cases were 79 750±12 090/mm3 and 11 026.98±4316.742/mm3, respectively. Levels of blood parameters (total leukocyte count (TLC), blood glucose, serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), and calcium and phosphorus) were found to be increased, and significant between positive and negative cases p<0.05, where blood urea and protein remained constant and non-significant. Conclusion: Detection of Leptospira antibody in non-vaccinated dogs indicates a significant threat to human population and demand unique strategic action plan for the control and prevention of disease.