The first report of schmallenberg virus seroprevalence and associated risk factors in cattles in northern Algeria.

Abstract

Schmallenberg virus (SBV) is an arbovirus belonging to the Peribunyaviridae family. It is spread by many biting midges of Culicoides spp genus. In cattle, SBV infection can lead to sporadic abortions, as well as significant reproductive issues, including congenital malformations in newborns and stillbirths. Our study aimed to assess the seroprevalence of schmallenberg virus infection in cattles using indirect ELISA test, and identifying related risk factors. A total of 370 blood samples were randomly collected from cattles of six districts in north Algeria (Algiers, Blida, Bouira, Boumerdès, Tipaza, and Tizi Ouzou). A questionnaire was performed in order to collect zootechnical parameters data, clinical signs, and geographic location. A seroprevalence of 44% (CI95%, 39 - 49.2%) was revealed. Univariate analyses and multivariate logistic regression were used to assess related risk factors with SBV infection. The findings showed that animals older than 2 years, those in the third stage of pregnancy, and cattle exhibiting symptoms like diarrhea had the highest rates of SBV infection. This study demonstrated that the Schmallenberg virus is endemic in cattle within the investigated region. Effective control of arboviruses is vital for both public health and animal health. To enhance vector disease management for SBV and reduce the risk of its spread to non-endemic regions in Algeria, it is important to establish entomological surveillance as soon as possible.