Newcastle disease

(ND), an influenza-like viral infection of birds that causes epidemics in domestic poultry, and which can spread to humans. The disease was first seen in the English city of Newcastle. It is caused by a single-stranded RNA virus belonging to the viral family Paramyxoviridae. The ND virus is quite stable and can remain infectious for long periods even at low temperature. Newcastle disease is sometimes called avian influenza, but should not be confused with the true influenza strains that infect poultry.

Both wild and pet birds may contract the ND virus. Chickens are among the most susceptible birds; their eggs may also be infected, but can be made safe by heating. The most dangerous strains of the virus, which are rare in the United States, may cause severe illness in birds, including pneumonia, gastrointestinal disease, or encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) leading to paralysis. In chickens and turkeys the disease may be so severe that nearly all those in an infected flock die within three days before any signs of illness have developed. In pet birds the disease ranges from very mild to severe.

Newcastle disease is transmitted by contact with infected birds themselves, which emit the virus when breathing, or with infected products, clothing, feed, and even farm equipment. Once ND is established it is essential to thoroughly disinfect all contaminated objects using strong chemicals.

Newcastle disease is a zoonosis, a disease normally occurring in animals that is communicable to humans. Illness in humans can result from close contact with infectious birds, but is most frequent in persons who work in laboratories where samples from infected birds are analyzed. Generally, headaches and flulike symptoms develop and last four to seven days. A mild, superficial inflammation of the eyes with reddening (conjunctivitis) is common. In humans infected by the virus serious illness or permanent vision impairment is rare. When a pet bird develops ND, the owner should be aware that it may continue to shed the virus, or be contagious, for several months.