Molecular characterization and phylogeography of equine influenza virus H3N8 detected in donkeys in Nigeria 2022–2023
Our findings revealed multiple introductions of EIV probably from South America and Western Europe, rapid virus evolution, and significant transboundary spread facilitated by livestock trade, particularly involving donkeys and subclinical infections in the transmission of the virus. These results underscore the persistence and evolution of EIV H3N8 (Fc-1) in Nigeria and emphasize the need for improved genomic surveillance, control measures, and vaccination strategies against EIV in Africa. Additionally, regulating transboundary livestock trade is essential to mitigate the risk of future outbreaks.
Authors
- F. N. Afiukwa
- Nicodemus Mkpuma (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6337-1613)
- Clement Adebajo Meseko (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7003-7528)
- Ogbonnaya Ogbu
- Maryam Muhammad
- Chukwu Chukwu
- Ifeanyichukwu Romanus Iroha
- Ismaila Shittu
Institutions
- Federal Medical Centre (NG)
- National Veterinary Research Institute (NG)
- Ebonyi State University (NG)
Publication Details
- Journal
- BMC Veterinary Research
- Published
- 2026-02-03
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1186/s12917-025-05279-6
- Primary Topic
- Influenza Virus Research Studies
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00