ARS | Publication request: Diagnostic approaches for Rift Valley Fever

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: September 11, 2012
Publication Date: January 8, 2013
Citation: Wilson, W.C., Weingartl, H., Drolet, B.S., Dave, K., Harpster, M.H., Johnson, P.A., Faburay, B., Ruder, M.G., Richt, J., Mcvey, D.S. 2013. Diagnostic approaches for Rift Valley Fever. Meeting Abstract. Vol 135: 73-78.

Interpretive Summary: The economic losses due to diseases outbreaks caused insect-transmitted animal viruses appear to be increasing world-wild. One of these important viruses is Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) that causes lethal disease in cattle, camels, sheep and goat in Sub-Saharan Africa. There is concern that this virus could spead because of global warming, increased animal trade or through bioterrorism. This paper discusses the current and developing approaches to detection and diagnosis of this disease.

Technical Abstract: Disease outbreaks caused by arthropod-borne animal viruses (arboviruses) resulting in significant livestock and economic losses world-wide appear to be increasing. Rift Valley fever (RVF) virus (RVFV) is an important arbovirus that causes lethal disease in cattle, camels, sheep and goats in Sub-Saharan Africa. There is concern that this virus could spead because of global warming, increased animal trade or through bioterrorism. This paper discusses the current and developing approaches to diagnosis of RVF. Diagnostic assays are available for RVF, but availability can be limited and there is a need for global harmonization. Continued improvement of standard serological and viral genome amplification approaches, including new embedded/syndromic testing, biosensor, emerging virus detection and characterization technologies is needed.