Identification of African swine fever viral antigens in the hemolymph of soft ticks (Argasidae: Ornithodoros) by the immunodot blot test.

Abstract

The immunodot blot test was used to identify African swine fever virus (ASFV) antigens in the hemolymph from soft ticks (Ornithodoros coriaceus) fed on ASFV-infected pigs. The immunodot blot test was sensitive and specific for ASFV antigens and has potential field application. Hemolymph from field-collected ticks can be screened for ASFV and a variety of other tick-borne pathogens using this test.