Lateral flow assay based detection of canine distemper virus (CDV) infection in dogs

Abstract

CDV is a fatal, highly contagious viral disease found in dogs worldwide. In settings where advanced labs are unavailable, achieving an early and accurate diagnosis is vital for managing the spread of the disease. This study utilized a lateral flow assay (LFA) as a point-of-care tool to determine CDV incidence among 40 dogs presenting with respiratory and neurological signs at Shree Veterinary Hospital, Jetpur. Following the manufacturer's protocol for the Bionote LFA kits, 7 out of the 40 samples (17.5%) were confirmed positive for CDV. The observed 17.5% positivity rate indicates a significant occurrence of CDV within the study population and underscores the diagnostic utility of LFA kits. Due to their rapid turnaround time, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness, these kits allow for on-site results without the need for sophisticated laboratory infrastructure. Consequently, LFA serves as a valuable tool for early detection and prompt intervention, ultimately helping to reduce disease transmission and mortality.