November 1, 2024

 

Republic of Ireland's agriculture department warns poultry keepers of Newcastle disease risks

The Republic of Ireland's Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has issued a call for vigilance among poultry keepers concerning Newcastle disease, urging close monitoring for any signs of this disease within flocks across the country, Agriland reported.

 

Currently, there are no cases of Newcastle disease in poultry in Ireland, with the last confirmed case recorded in 1997. The DAFM recently published detailed information on the disease, including guidance specifically designed for poultry owners.

 

According to Teagasc, the Irish poultry sector produces approximately 70 million chickens, four million turkeys, and eggs from two million hens annually. Newcastle disease, as described by DAFM, is "a highly contagious and often severe disease which affects birds," impacting domestic poultry as well as pet, zoo, and wild birds.

 

The disease commonly presents with respiratory or nervous system issues, a decline in egg production, greenish watery diarrhoea, and swelling around the eyes and neck. Newcastle disease is a notifiable disease in Ireland, meaning any suspicions of its presence must be reported immediately to DAFM.

 

DAFM emphasised the importance of laboratory testing to confirm Newcastle disease cases, as its symptoms can be like those of avian influenza (bird flu). Transmission typically occurs through direct contact with infected or carrier birds, and infection can spread through contaminated faeces, respiratory discharges, food, water, equipment, or clothing. The virus can survive for weeks in cool environments, making it highly contagious.

 

If the virus is introduced to a susceptible flock, nearly all birds may become infected within two to six days. Different strains of the virus target various systems, such as the nervous, respiratory, or digestive systems. Clinical signs include gasping, coughing, sneezing, and rales, as well as tremors, paralysis, twisted necks, and diarrhoea. Birds may also experience a reduction or cessation of egg production, and eggs laid by infected birds can be abnormal in colour, shape, or texture, with watery albumen.

 

DAFM recommends vaccination for all laying birds against Newcastle disease. Broilers and other fattening birds may also be vaccinated, depending on the local disease situation. The department highlights biosecurity measures as the primary means of reducing disease risks, including those of Newcastle disease and avian influenza.

 

Strict biosecurity standards are advised for all poultry and captive bird owners. The DAFM warns that Newcastle disease virus may be present in the environment or could be transmitted by wild birds. Outdoor areas for poultry and captive birds should be fenced or netted to prevent contact with wild birds and contamination from bird droppings or feathers. If wild birds access poultry areas, any droppings or feathers should be removed carefully.

 

Routine health checks for poultry are encouraged, with special attention given to chickens, as they are more susceptible to Newcastle disease. DAFM also advises regular cleaning and disinfecting of concrete surfaces such as walkways and paths on poultry sites.

 

Only essential visitors should be allowed access to poultry sites, with all visitors provided with farm or disposable overalls, footwear, and handwashing facilities to minimise contamination risk.

 

DAFM also noted that Newcastle disease is a minor zoonosis, meaning it can occasionally infect humans, causing conjunctivitis that is typically mild and self-limiting. The disease poses no food safety risk to consumers of properly cooked poultry products, including eggs.

 

Poultry keepers who suspect their flock may be infected with Newcastle disease are advised to take immediate action. They should isolate or confine the affected birds and report the suspected case to DAFM by contacting their local Regional Veterinary Office (RVO). Outside of office hours, keepers can contact the National Disease Emergency Hotline at 01 492 8026.

 

Globally, Newcastle disease remains under control in countries such as Canada, the US, and parts of western Europe, according to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). However, the WOAH noted that wild birds, which may carry the virus asymptomatically, can contribute to outbreaks in any location where poultry is raised, with the disease still present in parts of Africa, Asia, and South America.

 

-      Agriland