Help us prevent an epidemic of Exotic Newcastle Disease in Iowa’s Poultry!
Exotic Newcastle disease (END) is a contagious and fatal viral disease affecting all species of birds. There is currently an epidemic of END in California that is resulting in the death of millions of chickens and other birds, and costing us millions of dollars. END is probably one of the most infectious diseases of poultry in the world. END is so virulent that many birds die without showing any clinical signs.
If you have chickens, or know someone that does, report the following symptoms immediately:
Respiratory: sneezing, gasping for air, nasal discharge, coughing;
Digestive: greenish, watery diarrhea;
Nervous: depression, muscular tremors, drooping wings, twisting of head and neck, circling, complete paralysis;
Partial to complete drop in egg production;
Production of thin-shelled eggs;
Swelling of the tissues around the eyes and in the neck;
Sudden death;
Increased death loss in a flock.
Avoid contact with Exotic Newcastle Disease:
Exotic Newcastle Disease (END) is transmitted from one place to another through the movement of poultry. END occurs in Mexico and Central America. Poultry that enter the U.S. illegally are at high risk of carrying the disease. Chickens, fighting cocks, parrots, and other caged pet birds are susceptible to the disease. Avoid places where there is exposure and movement of these birds, such as flea markets, and cock fighting events (this activity is illegal in most of the U.S. including Iowa).
If you have information about suspicious birds or activities, please call the numbers listed at the top of this page or contact your state district veterinarian. Thank you for collaborating with this effort to protect Iowa’s poultry!
