In-Country Activity Implementation Plan in Lao PDR for JFY2005
Epidemiological survey on hemorrhagic septicemia (HS) and classical swine fever (CSF)

Background

Lao PDR shares long borders with 5 countries, which facilitates invasion of infectious diseases, and lately they have been spreading over the country probably due to natural phenomena such as climatic changes and flood. Cattle and water buffaloes are suffering from HS and FMD, and pigs from CSF especially. A number of outbreaks have been reported every year from Khammouane Province in the central region where the animal density is highest in the country. Therefore, the disease prevalence in the area should be clarified through epidemiological surveys on HS and CSF, which would also serve to improve diagnostic ability of NHAC and train animal health workers in the field.

Purpose

1. To clarify the HS prevalence in Khammouane Province through serological survey on HS
2. To clarify the CSF prevalence in Khammouane Province through serological survey on CSF
3. To familiarize animal health workers with the proper sampling/delivery methods for laboratory examinations and appropriate management in case of disease outbreaks through the field work

Methods

1. Sampling

    Sites: Khammouane Province
        1. Hinboune District
        2. Nakai District
        3. Tha Khek District
        4. Sebanphai District
        5. Nong Bok District
        6. Xaybouathong District

    Methods: Two teams - one for cattle raising farms, another for pig raising farms.
                                     Each team consists of the following 4 persons.
                2 staff from NAHC
                1 staff from PAFO
                1 staff from DAFO

Each team carries out two 8-day field works (2 days for moving, 6 days for sampling: 1 day for each district), but NOT simultaneously. Aiming at 200 samples.

2. Test Methods

Indirect ELISA is applied for serosurvey on HS and blocking ELISA for CSF. Both ELISAs will be developed in Thailand and transferred to NAHC by experts. HS antigen for ELISA could be prepared at NAHC. All the necessities for the ELISAs (including reagents and disposables) are provided by the Project.

Input

1. Thai expert (Field work: from Khon Kaen Center)
2. Japanese experts (long-term expert: CSF blocking ELISA, short-term expert: HS antigen preparation)
3. Necessities for sampling and laboratory examination, daily allowance, accommodation, fuel cost, etc.
4. Equipment for JFY2004: ELISA plate washer

Expected Results

1. Vaccination status and disease prevalence will be clarified, which can be utilized for the planning of the future vaccination program in the area.
2. The NAHC staff can deepen their understanding on the test procedure and interpretation of the results by experiencing all the process from sampling to examination.
3. The staff will become able to apply the same technique for the diagnosis of other diseases through the establishment of home-made ELISA (not a commercial kit), which results in the improvement of the diagnostic ability of NAHC.
4. The information on animal feeding and animal health, and proper procedures for sampling and delivery are extended to the animal health workers, leading to the improvement of livestock and animal health conditions in the area.

Personnel in Charge

Dr. Bounmy Xaymountry               Head of Epidemiology
Dr. Phengphet Vorachit                Head of Animal Diagnostic Laboratory