Antibodies against MERS coronavirus in dromedary camels, Kenya, 1992-2013

Abstract

Dromedary camels are a putative source for human infections with Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus. We showed that camels sampled in different regions in Kenya during 1992-2013 have antibodies against this virus. High densities of camel populations correlated with increased seropositivity and might be a factor in predicting long-term virus maintenance.

Keywords: Kenya; MERS-CoV; Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus; antibodies; coronavirus; dromedary camels; reservoir; seroprevalence; viruses; zoonoses.

Figure

Greater Horn of Africa and Kenya. A) Arabian Peninsula and neighboring countries in the Greater Horn of Africa. B) Detailed map of Kenya showing sampling sites in 7 counties (Turkana, Baringo, Laikipia, Marsabit, Isiolo, Mandera, and Wajir) for Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Counties were assigned to 3 regions named after the former administrative provinces of Rift Valley, Eastern, and Northeastern (left to right). The 3 sampling regions are indicated in shades of green and other counties are indicated in gray. Percentages of camels positive for antibodies against MERS-CoV are shown with the density of camels (individuals/km²) for the analyzed regions during 2 periods (1991–2000 and 2000–2013). Serosurveys were performed during 1992–2013. Camel population numbers were determined for 1991–2000 and 2000–2013. Maps were created by using data from http://www.naturalearthdata.com.