The detection of antibody to virus-infection associated (VIA) antigen in various species of African wildlife following natural and experimental infection with foot and mouth disease virus.

The double immuno-diffusion (DID) test has been applied to detect antibody to VIA antigen in sera from various species of African wild ungulates. In conjunction with the serum neutralisation (SN) test it can be used to decide the degree of risk of movement of animals to other countries free from foot and mouth disease (FMD). The value of the test in assessing the history of infection is limited by its relatively low sensitivity and specificity in respect of virus type.