# Epidemiology and molecular characterization of lumpy skin disease virus in cattle in the Poro Region of Ivory Coast

## TL;DR

This study investigates the spread and genetic makeup of lumpy skin disease virus in cattle in northern Ivory Coast, finding high prevalence in larger and transhumant herds.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into LSD prevalence, risk factors, and genetic characteristics in a previously understudied region of Ivory Coast.

## Key findings

- LSD prevalence was 51.85% in cattle with pox-like lesions, with the highest rates in M’bengué and Dikodougou.
- Larger and transhumant herds had significantly higher LSD prevalence compared to smaller, sedentary herds.
- Phylogenetic analysis showed that Ivory Coast LSDV strains cluster with African field strains, distinct from recombinant strains in Asia and Russia.

## Abstract

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) threatens cattle health and productivity in Ivory Coast, where limited resources for livestock management hinder disease control. Moreover, the lack of studies on its prevalence and genetic profile leaves critical gaps in understanding its epidemiology and local risk factors. This study addresses these gaps by investigating LSD viruses’ prevalence, its molecular characteristic and the associated risk factors among cattle in the Poro Region of northern Ivory Coast.

Using a cross-sectional design, nodule and nasal swab samples were collected from 405 cattle across 36 villages between September 2023 and December 2024 based on syndromic surveillance. The samples were analyzed PCR to confirm LSD virus presence, followed by sequencing of four viral genes: RPO30, GPCR, EEV glycoprotein, and B22R.

Overall, LSD prevalence among cattle showing pox-like lesions and clinical symptoms was found to be 51.85% and varied significantly across localities, reaching 66.67% in M’bengué and 70.87% in Dikodougou. Larger herds (over 50 cattle) had a higher prevalence (76.51%) compared to smaller herds (34.72%), and transhumant herds showed increased prevalence (p < 0.001). No significant associations were identified between sex, age, or breed. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the Ivory Coast LSDV strains clusters with other African field strains, distinct from South-East Asian and Russian recombinants.

The present study shows a notable regional difference in the prevalence of LSD in cattle in Ivory Coast, with big and transhumant herds having a higher prevalence rate making the herd size and movement a major risk factor. Molecular analysis demonstrated that Ivory Coast LSD strains are in the same group with other strains found in the African field, indicating that it is necessary to take control measures within the region and provide further surveillance.