This investigation shows that MERS-CoV ELISA antibodies remain in dromedary camels at least for 9 years, most probably lifelong. The viral infection was most likely acquired at a young age when maternal antibodies have receded between 4 to 8 month of age. Additionally, in the investigated herd, the 4 ELISA antibody negative dromedary camels remained negative also for 9 years, indicating, that no MERS-CoV was circulating in the herd. Until today, the specific source of MERS-CoV infection for young dromedaries remains unknown.
Key words: Mers – Coronavirus, dromedary camel
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