Retrieving Historical Cases of Aujeszky’s Disease in Sicily (Italy): Report of a Natural Outbreak Affecting Sheep, Goats, Dogs, Cats and Foxes and Considerations on Critical Issues and Perspectives in Light of the Recent EU Regulation 429/2016

Abstract

Aujeszky’s disease is caused by Suid alphaherpesvirus 1, and its main reservoir host is the pig. However, other species are also susceptible. Infection with this virus causes a severe neurological clinical picture named Aujeszky’s disease, usually accompanied by itching and death a few days after the onset of symptoms. This study reports a multi-species outbreak of Aujeszky’s disease that occurred in Sicily, which led to the death of 2 goats, 15 sheep, 2 dogs, 2 cats and 2 foxes. The diagnosis was made by culture, indirect immunofluorescence on brain samples and confirmed by biological test on rabbits. This study reports the first cases of Aujeszky’s disease in Italy in cats, goat and sheep. The finding of Aujeszky’s disease in several species in Sicily suggests a potential epizootic risk. In such areas where a multi-host system is recognised, an analysis of the risk factors should be carried out in order to develop targeted strategies for the control and eradication of the disease. The critical issues that hinder the control of Aujeszky’s disease in the studied territory and perspectives for eradication in the light of EU regulation 429/2016 are also discussed.