Ranikhet Disease (Newcastle Disease) Outbreak

5.Ranikhet Disease (Newcastle Disease) Outbreak: Suspected highly virulent Ranikhet disease caused the death of nearly 1.5 lakh chickens in Andhra Pradesh’s Eluru, Guntur, Prakasam, and Godavari districts recently.

• About Ranikhet Disease: Highly contagious viral disease affecting poultry (chickens, turkeys, ducks).

oCaused by virulent avian avulavirus 1 (Newcastle disease virus - NDV) or avian paramyxovirus-1 (APMV-1).

oAffects respiratory, nervous, and digestive systems of birds.

oLeads to drop in egg production and fertility issues.

oMorbidity is high; mortality varies from 50-100%.

oMinor zoonosis – Can cause mild conjunctivitis in humans, but self-limiting.

• Transmission: Direct contact with infected bird secretions (faeces, saliva).

oContaminated feed, water, clothing, and equipment.

• Symptoms: Varies by age of birds.

oYoung birds: Sneezing, gasping, weakness (resembles infectious bronchitis).

oRapid spread: Deaths occur quickly and increase daily.

• Treatment: No specific treatment available, proper housing and care can reduce disease severity.