Japanese Encephalitis Virus in Equines: Serological Survey and Epidemiological Insights from Gujarat, India

Abstract

The present study, “Seroprevalence of Japanese Encephalitis in Horses of Gujarat,” was conducted from February to August 2024 to assess exposure to Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) and associated epidemiological risk factors in equines. A total of 600 serum samples were collected from horses across 19 districts of Gujarat and screened using the Indirect IgG ELISA. The overall seroprevalence of JEV was found to be 26.00%, indicating natural exposure in the absence of vaccination. A highly significant variation (p<0.01) was observed across districts, with the highest seropositivity reported in Amreli (61.53%). Age-wise analysis showed significantly higher seroprevalence in horses above 20 years of age (46.15%) (p<0.05). However, sex and breed did not show any significant association with JEV seropositivity. These findings suggest ongoing viral circulation influenced by environmental and ecological factors such as mosquito density, climatic conditions, and proximity to reservoir hosts. The study highlights the importance of targeted surveillance, integrated vector management, and periodic monitoring of equine populations for effective control and prevention of Japanese encephalitis.