TURKEY RHINOTRACHEITIS VIRUS

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Causative Agent(s)

Pneumovirus (in the family paramyxoviridae).

Clinical Presentation and Epidemiology

Also seen in chickens. Secondary E. coli infections can increase mortality.

Transmission is through direct contact, and possibly also aerosol and fomite transfer.

Clinical signs in growing birds include respiratory signs (rales, sneezing, frothy nasal discharge, foamy conjunctivitis, swelling of infraorbital sinuses, submandibular oedema). In laying chickens there is reduced feed consumption and decreased egg production. In broiler chickens there are mild respiratory signs followed by swollen heads.

Diagnostic Considerations

Virus detection and serology. The most suitable samples are tracheal and choanal swabs. Reverse transcriptase PCR, as well as real-time RT-PCR. Antigen detection tests have also been developed, including immunofluorescence and immunoperoxidase assays on both fixed and unfixed tissues.

Management and Treatment

Live and inactivated vaccines are available. Broad spectrum antibiotics will minimize contribution of secondary infections.