Newcastle Disease Virus
Newcastle disease is a virus from the family Paramyxoviridae. Avian paramyxovirus 1 affects chickens, ducks, pheasants, geese and turkeys. The virus is stable in carcasses for weeks, so has the potential to affect a large amount of
Hosts
Gallinaceous birds, pigeons, parrots, finches
Subclinical carriers: ducks, ostriches
Pathogenesis
Transmission via aerosol and direct contact Disease ranges from subclinical respiratory tract infections -> torticollis -> haemorrhages and death
Diagnosis
Two diagnostic tests currently exist: Animal test: 1. Samples of trachea and gut of 20 birds are tested in eggs HI using anti-NDV serum (to differentiate HA caused by Avian Influenza Virulence of isolate tested by the speed it kills chicks
2. DNA test (which will soon replace the animal test): Sequencing the cleavage site of H gene The more basic amino acids the more virulent the virus
Control
- Newcastle Disease is NOTIFIABLE
- Vaccination of chickens and racing pigeons
- Surveillance of imported exotic birds
- Isolation of infected stock
- Infected premises to be culled and firebreak cull if spread