Real-time RT-PCR Assay for the Detection of Rift Valley Fever Virus in Humans and Livestock

Description:

A quantitative RT-PCR-based assay has been developed to rapidly detect all known strains of Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV). RVFV infections occur in both humans and livestock animals resulting in significant mortality and economic loss. Upon outbreak, RVFV has been known to cause devastating loss among livestock (primarily sheep and cattle) with outbreaks characterized by sweeping "abortion storms" and elevation newborn animal mortality approaching 100% in affected areas. The CDC-developed assay is capable of detecting and quantifying RVFV infection in both human and veterinary samples.