Serological evidence of influenza A/H9 in indigenous birds and level of awareness at live bird markets, Plateau State

Avian influenza is a zoonotic disease that can adversely affect humans and animals. Nigeria first reported an outbreak of avian which was caused by subtype H5N1 in 2006, thereafter virological serological surveys revealed the importance local birds live bird markets community at large epidemiology country. In present study, 276 serum samples were collected for testing over five months from apparently healthy within two Local Government Areas Plateau State, to determine antibody prevalence A virus. The detection carried out using Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay further tested haemagglutination inhibition specific serotype result showed 30.4% (n=84) A, 26% (n=72) H9, 1.4% (n=4) H7, none confirmed be H5 serotype. Comparatively, Jos-North had lower relative risk with 18.9% (n=18) as compared Jos-South 36.5% (n=66). This study presence low pathogenic virus area dominance antibodies H9. To our knowledge, this indication H9 State Nigeria. Evidence A/H9 ecological niche known circulation subtypes H5Nx may complicate control region large. level awareness market operators about (AI) relatively indicated questionnaire survey conducted. Live poultry farmers need maintain high biosecurity limit mixing commercial prevent transmission have adverse effects on production, national international trade, economy public health.