Government confirms outbreak of Newcastle disease on farm in Rio Grande do Sul

The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA) confirmed this Wednesday (17), an outbreak of Newcastle disease (DNC) on a farm located in the municipality of Anta Gorda, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul.

According to the ministry, the farm where the outbreak was found was closed, including the suspension of bird movement. MAPA also reported that the consumption of poultry products inspected by the Official Veterinary Service (SVO) remains safe.

According to the ministry, the disease is caused by a virus that affects domestic and wild birds, causing respiratory symptoms, often followed by neurological manifestations, diarrhea and swelling in the head of these animals.

According to the Department of Animal Health and Livestock Supplies (DSA), although the disease can affect humans, it usually only causes mild and temporary conjunctivitis in people who come into direct contact with infected birds.

Positive diagnosis

The positive diagnosis was made by the Federal Laboratory for Agricultural Defense of São Paulo (LFDA-SP), recognized as an international reference laboratory for the diagnosis of Newcastle Disease (ND) by the World Organization for Animal Health (WHO).

The ministry reported that the Secretariat of Agricultural Defense (SDA) together with the Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock, Sustainable Production and Irrigation of Rio Grande do Sul (Seapi) will eliminate all infected birds and carry out cleaning and disinfection of the site to eradicate the focus of the disease.

“A complementary investigation will also be carried out within a 10km radius around the area where the outbreak occurred, in addition to other measures that may be necessary according to the epidemiological assessment,” the ministry said in a statement.

According to the DSA, the last confirmed cases in Brazil occurred in 2006 in common pigeons and the Avoante species.

The DSA also advises that commercial breeding and laying hens should be vaccinated regularly against Newcastle disease. Poultry establishments that ship birds to crowded areas or for live bird sales are required to keep only vaccinated birds.

Source: CNN Brasil

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