NEWCASTLE DISEASE (ND)
Newcastle Disease is an ever-present viral threat to the poultry industry that can restrict
international trade. Presenting as mild to severe respiratory problems, it impacts growth rate
and feed utilization, causing mortality and increased reject rates.
UNDERSTANDING THE THREAT FROM ND
Newcastle Disease (ND) is a major source of mortality, performance and reject loss to the global poultry industry. Transmitted by direct contact with the droppings or respiratory discharges of infected birds, the virus can live for a long time and be spread by contaminated objects such as shoes, clothing and equipment. Signs of the disease vary from loss of appetite, coughing and diarrhea to a severe drop in egg production, paralysis and sudden death.
PROTECTING AGAINST ND
For commercial layer and breeder flocks, Newcastle Disease is a threat
to egg production and egg quality that requires repeated vaccination to
maintain protection for the life of the flock. The poultry industry has
recognized the almost-universal need to vaccinate against this threat to
minimize the likelihood of a performance-eroding outbreak of the
disease. Newcastle Disease remains an ever-present threat, and uniform
and accurate vaccination with traditional live vaccines remains a
challenge.
