October 20, 2010

Newcastle disease hits Malaysia egg farms

Chickens in some egg farms in Malacca and Johor have been affected by Newcastle disease - a viral disease that causes chickens to lay smaller-than-usual eggs.

This is affecting the supply of eggs in Singapore. Compared to a month ago, there has been a decline in Singapore's egg imports by about 1.5 million eggs, or a 7% decrease.

Singapore's Eggs Import and Export Trading Association said prices for eggs have also increased by SGD0.03 (US$0.02). The demand is also higher for larger chicken eggs.

Newcastle disease is a contagious bird disease and is more common in Southeast Asia. Its effects are most notable in domestic poultry due to their high susceptibility.

According to the association, although the chickens are slowly recovering from the disease, the production of eggs has not gone up as quickly.

The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) is monitoring the situation.