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==Introduction==

==Introduction==

Avian Encephalomyelitis (AE) is commonly known as epidemic tremor in chickens and is caused by a hepatovirus [[avian encephalomyelitis-like virus 1| '''''avian encephalomyelitis-like virus 1''''']] (AEV).  The disease is of economic concern to breeders and layers as it causes a '''decrease in egg production''' in laying hens, a '''decrease in egg hatchability''', '''neurological diseases in chicks under three weeks of age'''and '''affected chicks that that survive are considered unlikely to be profitable'''.

Avian Encephalomyelitis (AE) is commonly known as epidemic tremor in chickens and is caused by a hepatovirus [[avian encephalomyelitis-like virus 1| '''''avian encephalomyelitis-like virus 1''''']] (AEV).  The disease is of economic concern to breeders and layers as it causes a '''decrease in egg production''' in laying hens, a '''decrease in egg hatchability''', '''neurological diseases in chicks under three weeks of age''' and '''affected chicks that that survive are considered unlikely to be profitable'''.

The disease is spread '''horizontally''', via the faecal-oral route and chicks from non-immune layers under the age of three weeks are neurologically affected.  '''Vertical transmission''' can also occur from infected layers to their chicks.  The virus may be shed for several weeks. Once a bird becomes infected with the disease or is vaccinated it is immune to AE for life, some birds are left blind.  AE is not considered a zoonosis.

The disease is spread '''horizontally''', via the faecal-oral route and chicks from non-immune layers under the age of three weeks are neurologically affected.  '''Vertical transmission''' can also occur from infected layers to their chicks.  The virus may be shed for several weeks. Once a bird becomes infected with the disease or is vaccinated it is immune to AE for life, some birds are left blind.  AE is not considered a zoonosis.