Temporal dynamics of European brown hare syndrome infection in Northern Italian brown hares ( Lepus europaeus )

摘要: The progressive decline in the hare population across Europe has been associated with occurrence of European brown syndrome (EBHS), a highly contagious disease considered endemic all countries. This study aimed to evaluate in-field temporal dynamics virus (EBHSV) infection wild hares (Lepus europaeus) and test influence density on EBHS seroprevalence. A total 512 blood samples were collected from free ranging captured for restocking seven different areas province Brescia (Northern Italy) during consecutive years (2006–2013) tested using competitive ELISA. generalized linear mixed model estimated yearly effects prevalence. Of tested, 344 (67.2 %) positive EBHSV antibodies, annual seroprevalence 94.3 35.8 %. prevalence was 3.303 times higher over 15 hares/km2 declined years. results indicate ongoing transmission population. Since eradication is not feasible, strategy at promoting stability through density-dependent mechanisms could be applied; however, this seems more difficult practice than theory would most likely require very high hares.