Seroprevalence of Akabane, border, and Rift Valley fever diseases and their risk factors in small ruminants of Fars Province, Southern Iran.

The Akabane virus (AKAV), Border disease virus (BDV), and Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) are significant pathogens of ruminants, causing reproductive and neurological disorders that lead to major economic losses in the livestock industry. This study contributes to global efforts by providing valuable epidemiological insights into these three reproduction-related viruses and associated risk factors from Fars Province, a major livestock-producing area in southern Iran. Blood samples were collected from sheep and goats across 32 cities between January and December 2024. After the primary evaluation, 458 samples were tested for AKAV and BDV, and 366 samples were tested for RVFV antibodies using commercial ELISA kits. Antibodies against AKAV and BDV were detected in 59.17% (95% CI: 54.8–63.8%) and 53.49% (95% CI: 48.9–58.1%) of the samples, respectively, whereas no antibodies against RVFV were detected. The prevalence of AKAV was highest in the northern region of Fars Province (OR = 4.505, 95% CI: 2.372–8.556, p < 0.001). Of the total samples analyzed, 157 (34.4%) tested positive for both viruses. Older animals exhibited significantly higher seroprevalence rates for both AKAV (OR = 1.017, 95% CI: 1.002–1.033, p = 0.023) and BDV (OR = 1.018, 95% CI: 1.006–1.031, p = 0.004). Additionally, the prevalence of BDV was significantly higher in sheep compared to goats (OR = 1.576, 95% CI: 1.003–2.478, p = 0.025). Other factors, including sex, breed, management system, and history of abortion, showed no significant association with infection (P > 0.05). Taken together, this study revealed a high prevalence of AKAV and BDV in Fars Province, suggesting an expansion of viral circulation. Although RVFV antibodies were not detected, the virus’s zoonotic nature and reports from neighboring regions emphasize the importance of continued monitoring.