Exotic Newcastle disease is one of the most highly contagious viral diseases affecting birds, especially chickens. The virus is capable of surviving in the environment, and birds may become infected by coming into contact with contaminated clothing, equipment, feed, or water. Exotic Newcastle disease can spread rapidly from bird to bird through bodily secretions, feces, and saliva. The United States has suffered several outbreaks of the disease caused by smuggling pet birds, poultry, and/or illegal poultry products into the country.

Endemic Areas

Asia, Africa, Central and South America, and parts of Europe. The United States and Canada are considered free of Exotic Newcastle disease.

Clinical Signs

• Sudden death
• Difficulty breathing
• Paralysis including leg dragging and droopy wings
• Watery, green diarrhea
• Decline in egg production
• Coughing
• Swelling of the eyes and neck

Treatment

The clinical signs of Exotic Newcastle disease are indistinguishable from those of Avian Influenza. Therefore, laboratory testing must be conducted to distinguish between them. There is no specific treatment for Exotic Newcastle disease, and nearly 100 percent of birds that get the disease die. Any bird suspected of having Exotic Newcastle disease should be reported to the State Veterinarians or USDA Area Veterinarian in Charge immediately.

Prevention

All susceptible poultry should receive an appropriate Exotic Newcastle disease vaccine series. Although the vaccine does increase resistance to the virus, it does not provide complete protection, and outbreaks can still occur.

Simple farm biosecurity procedures can prevent the spread of Exotic Newcastle disease into the United States. Any bird entering the country must go through proper channels to help ensure the health of U.S. flocks. Other measures include separating commercial and backyard flocks from wild birds that can be carriers of the disease, limiting direct human contact with flocks, and using proper cleaning and disinfection procedures.

Public Health

Exotic Newcastle disease is not considered a threat to public health. However, the disease has been found to cause mild conjunctivitis (pink eye) in people working closely with sick birds.

Links

USDA-APHIS - Exotic Newcastle Disease

Kansas State University-Exotic Newcastle Disease Fact Sheet

USDA-APHIS-Biosecurity for the Birds

Exotic Newcastle Disease Photos

University of Florida-Poultry Vaccines