No Evidence of Influenza A Virus RNA in South African Backyard Swine in the uMgungundlovu District of the KwaZulu-Natal Province

Background: Influenza A virus (IAV) is the most widely reported influenza type in swine populations worldwide. Since no information was available on IAV prevalence backyard South Africa, we, for first time, performed a molecular surveillance detecting uMgungundlovu District of KwaZulu-Natal province Africa. Methods: Swine oral secretion (saliva) samples (n=102) were collected from three farms distantly located March 2021. Total RNA used to detect using one-step real-time RT-PCR assay with matrix gene-specific oligonucleotide primers and TaqMan probe. Result: None amplified gene suggesting that under investigation free active infection; however, quantified viral saliva needs further determine presence other viruses. The present study conducted during COVID-19 related lockdown restrictions which significantly decreased activity Southern Hemisphere. Increased alertness behavioural changes people, such as maintaining hygiene face mask day-to-day operations, might have limited transmission between humans swine.