Abstract

Introduction:
Bovine Respiratory Syncytial Virus (BRSV) is a important pathogen affecting goats, leading to respiratory diseases and substantial economic losses. Notwithstanding its known impact, there is limited data on BRSV prevalence and histopathological effects in goats from Wasit Province, Iraq.
Hypothesis: This study suggests that BRSV infection in goats depends on age, location, and season, and that lab tests can accurately detect and assess lung damage caused by the virus.

Aim:
The study aims to investigate the molecular and histopathological features of BRSV in goats, assess infection rates, and classify associated risk factors for example age, sex, and season.

Methods:
A total of 150 lung tissue samples from slaughtered goats in Wasit Province were analyzed using RT-qPCR for BRSV detection and histopathological examinations. Viral RNA was extracted and amplified using specific primers targeting the N gene. Histopathological changes were assessed using Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) and Masson’s trichrome staining. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate associations between infection rates and risk factors.

Results:
The BRSV infection rate was 33.3%, with significant variations by age, sex, and season. Goats older than one year had a higher infection rate (41.8%) compared to younger goats. Females exhibited a greater prevalence (23.5%) than males, and winter recorded the highest incidence (55.3%). Gross pathological findings included pulmonary discoloration, consolidation, and hemorrhagic foci. Histopathological analysis revealed severe alveolar destruction, fibrosis, syncytial cell formation, and inflammatory infiltration.

Conclusion:
BRSV is a main respiratory pathogen in goats, with infection rates inclined by demographic and seasonal factors. The study highlights the utility of molecular and histopathological techniques in diagnosing BRSV and underscores the need for targeted control measures. Further research should explore immune responses and vaccine efficacy in goats.

Key words: BRSV; Goats; Histopathology; Respiratory disease; Iraq.