Newcastle disease: what poultry farmers should know

Newcastle disease can cause serious losses in poultry. Farmers need to recognize concerning patterns, reduce spread and seek appropriate veterinary and diagnostic support.

What is Newcastle disease?

Newcastle disease is a contagious viral disease of birds. Severity can vary with the virus strain, bird age, immunity and other factors, so clinical presentation is not identical in every flock.

Signs farmers may notice

Possible signs include respiratory problems, depression, reduced feed or water intake, digestive changes, nervous signs and increased mortality. The combination and progression of signs matter.

How it can spread

The virus can move through infected birds and contaminated materials, equipment, clothing, footwear and other routes. Movement between houses or farms can increase the risk of transmission.

Why vaccination planning matters

Vaccination is an important part of Newcastle disease prevention, but protection depends on an appropriate programme, vaccine handling, flock health, timing and management. Farmers should follow a programme developed with qualified veterinary guidance.

Biosecurity is the second line of defence

Control unnecessary visitors, clean and disinfect equipment appropriately, manage footwear and clothing, limit movement between houses and keep wild birds and rodents away from feed and water where practical.

What to record if disease is suspected

Record flock age and size, mortality by date, clinical signs, vaccination history, recent movement, feed and water intake, environmental conditions and other relevant events. These records can help professional assessment and investigation.

When to seek help

If mortality is rising quickly, severe respiratory or nervous signs appear, or a contagious disease is suspected, contact a qualified poultry veterinarian and follow local animal-health guidance. Avoid moving birds or equipment between farms while an outbreak is being investigated.