Avian Pox Virus

Poxvirus is a contagious viral disease that affects poultry, caused by the Avipoxvirus. It typically presents in two forms: cutaneous (dry pox) and diphtheritic (wet pox). The disease spreads through direct contact with infected birds, contaminated equipment, or via biting insects like mosquitoes. It is slow-spreading and can affect chickens, turkeys, and other avian species.

Forms of Avian Pox

  • Cutaneous (Dry Pox):

    • Characterized by scabby lesions on unfeathered areas like the comb, wattles, eyelids, legs, and feet.
    • Lesions begin as small white spots that progress to raised, crusty scabs.
    • Typically self-limiting, but severe cases may interfere with vision, feeding, or movement.

  • Diphtheritic (Wet Pox):

    • A more severe form, involving the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, trachea, and upper respiratory tract.
    • Presents as yellow, cheesy plaques that can obstruct breathing and swallowing.
    • This form has a higher mortality rate due to suffocation or secondary infections.

Clinical Signs

  • Lethargy and reduced activity.

  • Reduced appetite and weight loss.

  • Decreased egg production in layers.

  • Respiratory distress (wet pox form).

  • Scabs and lesions on exposed skin.

Transmission

  • 1. Direct Contact

    • Spread through bird-to-bird contact or exposure to infected scabs or fluids.

    2. Insect Vectors

    • Mosquitoes and other biting insects are major carriers.

    3. Environment

    • The virus can persist in the environment for long periods on contaminated surfaces, equipment, and litter.

Diagnosis

  • 1. Clinical Signs:

    • Diagnosis often begins with recognizing characteristic lesions:
    • Birds may show lethargy, reduced appetite, and decreased productivity.

    2. Histopathology:

    • Examination of tissue samples from lesions under a microscope.
    • Inclusion Bodies: Presence of Bollinger bodies (intracytoplasmic viral inclusion bodies) in affected cells confirms poxvirus infection.

    3. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR):

    • A highly sensitive and specific molecular test that detects avipoxvirus DNA in tissue or lesion samples.
    • Useful for confirming the virus and identifying specific strains.

Treatments

  • 1. There Is No Treatment

    • No specific antiviral treatment; supportive care is the main approach.

  • 2. Antibiotics

    • Treat secondary bacterial infections with antibiotics (under veterinary guidance).

  • 3. Pain Relief

    • Pain relief can significantly improve a bird’s comfort during recovery.

  • 4. Good Hygiene

    • Ensure cutaneous lesions are kept clean, but avoid removing scabs, as they protect the healing tissue underneath. Use a wound spray or iodine solution to gently cleanse and disinfect the area, helping to promote healing and prevent secondary infections.

  • 5. Removal of Plaques

    • For wet pox, carefully remove plaques if they obstruct breathing (Consult a veterinarian, as these can be vascularised and may bleed).

Prevention

  • 1. Vaccination

    • Vaccination is the most effective preventative measure, typically administered to chicks or at-risk flocks.

    2. Insect Control

    • Reduce mosquito populations by eliminating standing water and using insect repellents in coops.

    3. Biosecurity

    • Maintain biosecurity by isolating infected birds, disinfecting equipment, and practicing good hygiene.
Wound care +

Avian Empire

Wound Care +

$22.00 NZD
$22.00 NZD
Sale Sold out
Tax included.
Size
View full details