2023-08-08 21:10:50
Gumboro Disease Prevalence Study Underway in the Netherlands
The Gumboro virus, which causes Gumboro disease in poultry, has been a concern in the Netherlands since 1986. However, recent strains of the virus seem to be dominating and causing more severe effects on flocks. A prevalence study is currently underway to better understand the prevalence of Gumboro disease and the role the virus plays in causing other problems.
The study, which began at the end of 2022 and continues into 2023, aims to investigate the occurrence of a recent strain of Gumboro virus in visibly healthy flocks, flocks with disappointing technical results, and flocks with visible problems. By examining these different types of flocks, researchers hope to gain a comprehensive understanding of the virus and its impact.
Since 2017, the Gumboro disease strains found have been different from older strains, with the recent strains appearing to dominate. These changed strains have been detected on numerous broiler and rearing laying hen farms across the country. The affected companies are scattered geographically, indicating that the issue is widespread.
Flocks infected with the altered strains have shown varying symptoms, but common complaints include increased mortality, wet stables, reduced growth, and disappointing technical results. This suggests that the recent strains of Gumboro virus are causing significant harm to poultry production.
In 2019, researchers investigated the pathogenic potential of the virus for chicks and found that it did not cause immediate mortality in laying hens and broilers. However, it did cause severe and long-term damage to the bursa, an organ essential for the immune system. In 2020, practical research will determine whether the recent field strain can break through maternal immunity generated through vaccinations. Preliminary findings indicate that both the classic and recent strains were able to lead to an infection in all groups tested, resulting in severe bursa damage and detection of Gumboro virus through PCR analysis. This suggests that the field virus is capable of infecting chickens before a live vaccine becomes effective.
A key question being addressed in the new prevalence study is whether the recent field strain of Gumboro virus is clinically relevant. The classic clinical picture and typical symptoms associated with Gumboro disease, such as muscle bleeding and swollen bursas, are rarely observed anymore. However, it remains unclear whether an infection from 2 weeks of age can lead to a deterioration of the immune system. There is also concern that the recent field strain may reduce the response to vaccinations or increase susceptibility to other pathogens.
The ongoing prevalence study will provide important insights into the prevalence and impact of Gumboro disease, helping poultry producers better understand and manage this infectious virus. The results of the study are expected to contribute to the development of effective control measures and vaccination strategies in the future.
Copyright ©2023 AgriHolland B.V.]
#Gumboro #disease #prevalence #study