DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjavs.2025.v12i03.001

Pages: 120-127

Highly pathogenic Avian influenza (HPAI) is a devastating disease of poultry which is associated with high death rate which disrupts poultry production and trade and can be transmitted to humans. The HPAI (H5) subtypes viruses have pandemic potential, cause significant economic losses and are of veterinary and public health concerns. A serological survey on the prevalence of antibodies to Avian influenza (AI) virus was carried out in poultry from six Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Benue State, Nigeria. A total of 1295 sera samples were analyzed for AI(H5) antibodies by haemagglutination inhibition test with an overall seroprevalence of 12.1% and mean antibody titre of 6.41± 0.180 log2. Among the LGAs, the seroprevalence of AI (H5) antibodies was highest in Otukpo (30.2%) and lowest in Kwande LGA (2.3%). The serprevalence in the sampling units was highest in local chickens (16.8%) and lowest in backyard poultry. Layers had the highest seroprevalence (17.5%) among the different poultry species sampled. The presence of AI (H5) antibodies in poultry in the study area indicated a previous exposure to the AI virus. This poses a potential risk for the spread of the virus and possible outbreak with negative effect on poultry production and public health. Further virological surveillance to isolate and characterize the AI viruses and other subtypes in the study area is suggested. Proper biosecurity and continuous surveillance are hereby advocated for effective prevention and control.