Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV)

Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV)

NDV is a highly contagious avian paramyxovirus that affects poultry and other birds, with strains ranging from low to highly virulent. Virulent forms (velogenic strains) are classified as notifiable diseases and can cause severe economic losses due to mortality and trade restrictions.

Clinical signs vary with strain virulence and bird species but may include:

• Sudden death, respiratory distress, coughing, nasal discharge
• Green diarrhoea, neurological signs (tremors, twisted necks)
• Drop in egg production or soft-shelled eggs in layers

qPCR testing offers:

• Rapid and sensitive detection of NDV RNA from tracheal or oropharyngeal swabs, cloacal swabs, or tissue samples
• Ability to differentiate NDV from other respiratory viruses(e.g., Avian Influenza)
• Crucial support for outbreak investigation, surveillance, and export testing

qPCR is widely used in routine monitoring of commercial flocks, breeder certification, and emergency disease response, where speed and accuracy are critical.