Nairobi Sheep Disease (NSD) is a highly infectious viral disease primarily affecting sheep, although other domestic and wild ruminant species can also be affected. NSD belongs to the family Rhabdoviridae and is caused by the Nairobi sheep disease virus (NSDV). The virus is primarily transmitted through the bites of specific blood-feeding insects such as ticks and mosquitoes.
Clinical signs of NSD vary depending on the affected species and may include fever, loss of appetite, depression, respiratory distress, nasal and ocular discharge, and neurological symptoms such as tremors and convulsions. The severity of the disease can vary from mild to severe, with a high mortality rate in severe cases. NSD mainly spreads among animals through direct contact with infected individuals, contaminated objects, or via insect vectors.
NSD is predominantly found in Eastern, Central, and Southern Africa. It is considered an economically significant disease due to its impact on livestock production, causing substantial financial loss for farmers. Vaccination is one of the key strategies for disease control, along with vector control measures and strict biosecurity practices. Prompt diagnosis and isolation of infected animals are crucial to prevent the spread of the disease.
Although NSD primarily affects sheep, it can occasionally infect other ruminant species such as goats and cattle, although these cases are rare. Nairobi Sheep Disease should not be confused with Nairobi Fly Disease, which is caused by a different viral agent.
