Poultry, Fisheries & Wildlife Sciences
Open Access
ISSN: 2375-446X
ISSN: 2375-446X
Perspective Article - (2023)Volume 11, Issue 3
Newcastle Disease (ND) stands as one of the most significant and economically devastating viral diseases affecting poultry worldwide. Named after an outbreak in newcastle upon Tyne, England, in 1926, this highly contagious ailment has the potential to decimate entire flocks of birds, impacting the poultry industry and food security [1].
Understanding newcastle disease
Newcastle disease is caused by the Avian Paramyxovirus Serotype 1 (APMV-1), a member of the Paramyxoviridae family. The virus has various strains, ranging from mild to highly virulent, with the latter causing severe outbreaks. While primarily affecting domestic poultry, wild birds can also act as carriers of the virus, contributing to its widespread dissemination [2].
Symptoms of newcastle disease
Newcastle disease presents itself with a wide range of symptoms, which can vary depending on the strain of the virus and the affected bird's age, immunity, and overall health [3].
Respiratory symptoms: Birds may exhibit sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, and gasping for breath due to respiratory distress [4].
Digestive problems: Affected birds often show signs of diarrhea, greenish feces, and a drop in egg production for laying hens [5].
Nervous system disorders: Newcastle disease can lead to neurological symptoms, such as twisting of the neck, paralysis, or circling behavior [6].
Swelling of the head and neck: Lumpy and swollen heads, wattles, and combs are common signs, leading to the disease's nickname, "fowl pest."
Transmission and spread
Newcastle disease spreads primarily through direct contact with infected birds or their secretions. It can also be transmitted indirectly through contaminated feed, water, equipment, clothing, or by wild birds and pests that carry the virus. The virus can persist in the environment for extended periods, making proper sanitation and biosecurity measures crucial in preventing its spread [7].
Economic impact
The economic consequences of newcastle disease are staggering. Outbreaks can lead to severe losses in the poultry industry [8].
Loss of livelihood: Small-scale poultry farmers, particularly in developing countries, often rely on their flocks for income and sustenance. ND outbreaks can devastate these communities.
Reduced poultry production: Infected birds experience a decrease in egg production and growth rates. In severe cases, entire flocks may have to be culled to prevent further spread.
Trade restrictions: Outbreaks of newcastle disease can result in trade restrictions for affected regions, impacting international poultry trade and causing financial losses [9].
Prevention and control
Preventing newcastle disease is a multifaceted approach that includes vaccination, biosecurity measures, and surveillance.
Vaccination: Vaccination is a primary tool in preventing newcastle disease. Both live and inactivated vaccines are available, with vaccination schedules tailored to the specific needs of the poultry population [10].
Biosecurity: Implementing strict biosecurity measures is essential to prevent the introduction of the virus. This includes maintaining clean facilities, controlling access to farms, and limiting contact with wild birds and other potential carriers.
Surveillance: Regular surveillance for newcastle disease is crucial to detect outbreaks early and contain them before they spread. Infected flocks should be isolated, and strict quarantine measures enforced.
Education and training: Farmers and poultry workers should receive training on recognizing the signs of newcastle disease and reporting suspected cases promptly.
Global efforts
Internationally, organizations like the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) collaborate with governments and stakeholders to control newcastle disease. These efforts include research, capacity building, and the development of guidelines for prevention and control. Newcastle disease remains a persistent threat to poultry worldwide, with the potential for catastrophic economic and food security consequences. Prevention through vaccination, robust biosecurity measures, and vigilant surveillance are essential in controlling and mitigating the impact of this viral menace. As global efforts continue to combat newcastle disease, it is vital to raise awareness among poultry farmers and the public about the significance of early detection and reporting. Only through a coordinated and proactive approach can we hope to protect the poultry industry and ensure a stable and secure food supply for future generations.
Citation: Marit K (2023) Threats of Newcastle Disease: A Poultry Pandemic. Poult Fish Wildl Sci. 11:245.
Received: 28-Aug-2023, Manuscript No. PFW-23-26616; Editor assigned: 31-Aug-2023, Pre QC No. PFW-23-26616 (PQ); Reviewed: 15-Sep-2023, QC No. PFW-23-26616; Revised: 22-Sep-2023, Manuscript No. PFW-23-26616 (R); Published: 29-Sep-2023 , DOI: 10.35248/2375-446X.23.11.245
Copyright: © 2023 Marit K. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.