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Newcastle Disease

Newcastle disease (PDF) is caused by a paramyxovirus. It is seen among wild, pet, and domestic birds. Wild birds transmit the infection to pet birds, as well as domestic-bird populations. The zoonotic potential of the agent in the laboratory environment has been realized on numerous occasions.

Aerosol transmission is the most important means of spread, but contaminated food, water, and equipment also transmit infection within bird populations.

The severity of the disease in birds depends on the pathogenicity of the infecting strain. Highly pathogenic strains had been, until recently, largely excluded from flocks within the United States (exceptions in California). Moderately pathogenic strains produce anorexia and respiratory disease in adult birds and neurological signs in young birds.

The disease in humans is characterized by follicular conjunctivitis, mild fever, and respiratory involvement ranging from cough to broncholitis and pneumonia.

In the laboratory environment, the disease can be prevented by immunizing susceptible birds against this virus, or obtaining birds from flocks known to be free of the agent.

Good personal hygiene practices should also be in place.