Seroprevalence and associated risk factors of Newcastle disease in guinea fowls in the Upper East region of Ghana.

Newcastle Disease (ND) is a major constraint to poultry production in sub-Saharan Africa. However, information on Newcastle disease in guinea fowls is scant in Ghana. This study seeks to detect circulating antibodies against ND and the risk factors for occurrence in guinea fowls in the Upper East region of Ghana. Sera was obtained from guinea fowls from households, live bird markets, and slaughter points in different locations in the Upper East region. The sera were evaluated for antibodies against Newcastle disease using the Haemagglutination Inhibition (HI) test. Questionnaire was administered to the farmers to assess risk factors such as vaccination status, management system, and contact with wild birds. Almost half, 213/431 (49.4%, 95% CI = 44.6-54.2) of the guinea fowls were seropositive. The seroprevalence was 46.2% in live bird markets, 36.63% in households, and 52.7% at slaughter points. A seroprevalence of 49.7% was observed in adults and 45.7% growers. There was a 53.4% prevalence in males and 43.9% in females. Antibodies to ND were found circulating in guinea fowls in the Upper East region. We recommend that guinea fowls be made an important component element in the ND surveillance for an effective monitoring and control in the region.