June 12, 2012

Italy affected by outbreak of Newcastle disease

Italy's veterinary authorities have reported of Newcastle disease outbreak in Marche.

The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) received Follow-up Report number one on June 8, 2012. According to the report, the positivity regards pigeons kept in a backyard farm.

Out of 180 pigeons showing signs of susceptibility, 10 cases and deaths were reported. No birds were destroyed.

According to Chapter 10.9 of the OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code (2011), the notification of this outbreak does not change the Newcastle disease free status of Italy and should not affect trade of poultry and their products since the birds involved in this outbreak do not fall within the OIE definition of poultry.

The source of the outbreak remains inconclusive.