Detection of canine distemper virus (CDV) in wild arboreal small mammals in forest surrounding fruit orchards of Bukit Besi, Terengganu

Hew, Zie Kai (2023) Detection of canine distemper virus (CDV) in wild arboreal small mammals in forest surrounding fruit orchards of Bukit Besi, Terengganu. [Project Paper] (Submitted)

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Abstract

Canine distemper virus (CDV) was once thought to be a pathogen that only affects dogs, but it is now known to be a widely dispersed multi-host pathogen that produces significant mortality in various carnivore species, especially the endangered Malayan tigers. Viral shedding of CDV is highly contagious and primarily spreads through the oronasal pathway via aerosol. Besides, CDV can infects various hosts, making it a significant emerging pathogen. Thus, the present study was conducted to determine prevalence data for CDV in wild arboreal small mammals such as squirrels and civets, which was speculated associated with increased exposure of CDV to Malayan tigers. Forests surrounding fruit orchards in Bukit Besi, Terengganu, were selected as there was a suspected CDV infection in Malayan tigers in 2019. Fifteen animals were captured with cage traps placed in the habitat area. Conjunctival and nasal swabs were obtained as the trapped small mammals were anesthetised. Samples obtained were stored at 4°C, transported, and extracted for further analysis. All the samples were then tested for antigen using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and gel electrophoresis. As a result, all the samples were tested negative; hence, these small mammals were free of CDV. Due to a lack of relevant studies in Malaysia, these findings have provided a knowledge gap for CDV prevalence data in Malayan tigers in our country. In conclusion, the results obtained in this study are insufficient to represent the prevalence of CDV in the entire population of Bukit Besi, Terengganu. Therefore, the accuracy of CDV detection could be increased with an increase in sample size.

Item Type:	Project Paper
Faculty:	Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
Depositing User:	Ms. Nordeena Abdul Aziz
Date Deposited:	30 Oct 2024 07:21
Last Modified:	30 Oct 2024 07:21
URI:	http://psaspb.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/2085

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