Preliminary data regarding dogs as WNV sentinels

Abstract

West Nile Virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that has a zoonotic character determining an inapparent infection, mild unspecific symptoms as flu like manifestations or a severe encephalitis, and can also affect other mammals, including dogs. Most dogs exposed to WNV exhibit mild symptoms such transient fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite. Severe neurological manifestations, including ataxia, seizures, and paralysis, are rare but can occur in immunocompromised or highly exposed animals. The role of dogs as amplifying hosts is minimal due to low-level viremia. However, despite the relatively low risk to dogs, the presence of WNV in canine populations reflects broader environmental and public health concerns, as it can serve as a marker for potential human exposure. This preliminary study aimed to verify the hypothesis of dogs as indicators of WNV evolution. Samples collected in 2023 and 2022 from a public dog shelter and a veterinary private clinic from Iasi County were tested for the presence of specific anti WNV antibodies. The results showed and overall prevalence of 37,5% [(IC 95% (27.38 - 47.62)] in the dog samples collected from the dog shelter and a 18,4% [(IC 95% (10.96-25.94)] in the samples collected from the private practice. Those are in accordance with the epidemiological situation in humans in 2023 and 2022 in the County. The study is preliminary and intend to add data to the international research. Further analyses are needed to clarify if dogs can be considered sentinels for WNV infection in humans.