Newcastle disease virus (NDV) is a highly contagious viral pathogen that primarily affects birds, particularly poultry. It belongs to the genus Avulavirus within the family Paramyxoviridae. NDV is responsible for Newcastle disease (ND), also known as avian pneumoencephalitis or avian distemper, which can cause severe respiratory, gastrointestinal, and neurological symptoms in infected birds.
The virus spreads through respiratory secretions, feces, and contaminated objects, and can survive for extended periods in the environment. NDV can infect domestic and wild birds, including chickens, turkeys, pigeons, ducks, and even exotic birds kept in captivity. It can result in high mortality rates, especially in unvaccinated poultry populations.
Symptoms of NDV infection vary depending on the severity of the strain involved, host susceptibility, and environmental factors. Affected birds may exhibit respiratory signs like coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and gasping. Additionally, neurological signs such as paralysis, circling, tremors, and twisting of the neck may be observed.
Due to its high economic impact on the poultry industry, Newcastle disease is considered a notifiable disease by most countries. Control measures include vaccination of susceptible bird populations, strict biosecurity protocols, isolation or culling of affected birds, and movement restrictions to contain the spread of the virus.
Newcastle disease virus poses minimal risk to humans. However, direct contact with infected birds or their discharges may cause conjunctivitis and mild flu-like symptoms in individuals with low immune system function.
