Avian Metapneumovirus (AMPV) is a viral respiratory disease affecting various poultry species. It belongs to the Pneumoviridae family and can cause significant economic losses in poultry production. In turkeys, it is commonly referred to as Turkey Rhinotracheitis Virus.
SYMPTOMS
CAUSES
PREVENTION
TREATMENT
Symptoms
- Turkeys (Most Severely Affected)
- Chickens:
- Milder respiratory signs
- Swollen head syndrome
- Decreased egg production
- Facial swelling
- Lower mortality rates than turkeys
- Note: Ducks and waterfowl are generally resistant to AMPV.
Causes and modes of transmission
- Viral Characteristics:
- RNA virus with four subtypes (A, B, C, D)
- Highly contagious
- Spreads rapidly through flocks
- Transmission Routes:
- Direct bird-to-bird contact
- Airborne transmission
- Contaminated equipment
- Movement of infected birds
- Personnel and vehicles
Prevention strategies
- Biosecurity:
- Strict access control
- Proper cleaning and disinfection
- All-in-all-out production
- Personnel hygiene protocols
- Equipment sanitation
- Vaccination:
- Live vaccines for young birds
- Inactivated vaccines for breeders
- Timing based on risk assessment
- Regular monitoring of immunity
- Management:
- Ventilation control
- Density management
- Age separation
- Visitor restrictions
Treatment options
- Direct Treatment:
- No specific antiviral treatment
- Supportive care only
- Supportive Care:
- Antibiotics for secondary infections
- Environmental optimization
- Electrolyte supplementation
- Stress reduction
Conclusion: Prevention through biosecurity and vaccination is more effective than treatment.