Search

The global terror instigated by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cannot be underestimated and the need for drastic measures towards its control cannot be overemphasized. Coronavirus disease 2019 is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) following attachment of the virus to specific receptors in the body. The distribution of these specialized receptors in various organs and tissues of the body is responsible for the various clinical presentations associated with the disease after infection. Despite the higher risk of spread of the infection, autopsies have been carried out though with maximum precautionary measures and information provided to further elucidate the extent of damages caused by the disease. Pathologic mechanisms leading to death from COVID-19 include respiratory failure due to surfactant deficiency and consequent alveolar collapse, cardiac syncope from direct damage to cardiac muscles, peripheral paralysis, cytokine storm and excessive haemorrhage from impaired coagulation. In patients that recover, potential outcomes which could be short- and/or long-term have been recognized. As a means to develop effective control, eradication and prevention strategies, a proper understanding of the mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 infection will fully ensure a positive breakthrough. Hence, in this article, the pathologic basis of COVID-19 are provided based on extensive literature searches, and proposed mechanisms of pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, autopsy findings and sequelae are being described.

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is an endemic disease of small ruminants in Nigeria and routine vaccination is the mainstay for its prevention and control. This study was aimed to assess PPR antibodies in vaccinated pregnant does and subsequent maternal immunity in their kids post parturition (PP). Twelve apparently healthy pregnant Kano brown does were used for this study. Pregnancy (third trimester) was confirmed by ultrasonography. Does were vaccinated using Nigerian 75/1 PPR strain vaccine produced by the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) Vom, Nigeria. Blood was collected from does and sera harvested pre-vaccination (PrV), one week post vaccination (PV) and at two weeks interval for up to 12 weeks PP. Sera were collected from kids at two weeks of age and at two weeks interval for up to 12 weeks PP. Sera were tested for PPR antibodies using competitive enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (c-ELISA). Results showed that 100% of vaccinated does had and maintained protective PPR antibodies PV. There was significant difference (P

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a highly contagious, trans-boundary viral disease of sheep and goats that have hindered successful small ruminant farming. Its current status in South East Nigeria with respect to its prevalence and farmers’ awareness was studied. Three states, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Enugu, were randomly selected for the study. Sera samples from 113 goats and 172 sheep (collected from December 2017 to June 2018) were randomly collected and analysed for the presence of PPRV antibodies, while structured interview schedules were conducted to elicit information on farmers’ awareness of the disease and PPR vaccination and use of veterinary services. An overall seroprevalence of 42.5% (121/285) was recorded. The seroprevalence in decreasing order was 62.2% (Enugu), 34.8% (Anambra) and 20.3% (Ebonyi). There was a significant association (X2 = 36.08, df = 2, p = 0.0001) between seroprevalence and the state sampled. Lack of awareness of PPR vaccination among small ruminant farmers, their limited use of veterinary services (38% consult veterinarians) and non-availability of the vaccine at veterinary establishments in the sampled states are potential risk factors of PPR prevalence in South East Nigeria. Consequently, an effective control measure like mass vaccination is recommended for the study area. Also, there is a need for an extension program for stakeholders and farmers in the study area and country on the grave importance and economic benefits of PPR vaccination and the use of veterinary services.