Seroprevalence of Rift Valley Fever Viruses Antibodies in Domestic Livestock in the Tahoua Region of Niger.

Abstract

Rift Valley Fever (RVF) remains a significant public health and economic concern in Niger, particularly in the Tahoua region. This study aimed to update seroprevalence estimates of Rift Valley Fever Virus (RVFV) and identify high-risk areas and animal populations. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between January and May 2024, during which 615 domestic ruminants (cattle, sheep, goats, and camels) were sampled and tested for RVFV-specific antibodies using a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA). The overall RVFV seroprevalence in the Tahoua region was 11.87% (±2.55%). Camels exhibited the highest seroprevalence (36.56%), followed by cattle (17.69%), while small ruminants showed much lower rates: 3.55% in goats and 3.37% in sheep. Significant geographic heterogeneity was observed, with the highest prevalence recorded in Birni N'Konni (30.53%, p < 0.05). No statistically significant differences in seroprevalence were found by sex (p = 0.909) or age (p = 0.876), although adults and females tended to have slightly higher rates. These findings confirm ongoing RVFV circulation in the region and identify camels as the most affected species. The results underscore the need for enhanced, species-specific surveillance, targeted vaccination campaigns, and vector control strategies in high-risk areas to prevent future outbreaks and protect both animal and human health.