Serological detection of small ruminant lentivirus infection in Babylon Governorate

Small ruminant lentivirus (SRLV) is a chronic and widespread infection among sheep and goats worldwide, leading to significant economic losses. Therefore, there is growing concern about screening for this disease, particularly in Iraq. This study aimed to detect SRLV infection in sheep and goats in Babylon Governorate, Iraq. Laboratory examinations were conducted on 110 blood samples collected from 58 ewes and 52 goats, as well as on 68 milk samples collected from 26 ewes and 42 goats from all regions of Babil Governorate, Iraq. The results revealed that 24 out of 110 blood samples tested positive for SRLV infection (21.81%). The prevalence of SRLV-positive cases was 24.13% in sheep (14/58) and 19.23% in goats (10/52). Additionally, 4 out of 68 milk samples tested positive for SRLV infection (5.88%). Among sheep, none of the 26 milk samples was positive, while 9.52% of goat milk samples (4/42) were positive. There were no significant differences between the occurrence of SRLV infection in blood and milk samples. Regarding gender differences, the serological test results indicated no significant difference between males and females. The infection rates were 25% in female sheep, 21.05% in female goats, 20% in male sheep, and 14.28% in male goats. However, significant differences (P≤0.05) were observed between different age groups. The highest infection rate was observed in sheep aged over five years (35.71%; 5/14) and between 3 and 5 years of age (35% or 7/20). In contrast, lower infection rates were observed in sheep <1 year (6.25%; 1/16) and between 1 and 3 years (12.5% or 1/8). Among goats, the highest infection rate was found in animals aged over five years (40% or 4/10). There were no significant differences observed in respiratory and pulse rates, and body temperature in relation to seroprevalence rates in this study. However, the differences among other accompanying clinical signs were significant. The results provide the first serological and clinical detection of SRLV infection in sheep and goats in Iraq.