3 diseases NZ doesn’t have that we need to watch for
These are the three most severe diseases in the poultry world, not present (so far) in New Zealand.
A first case could easily be in a backyard flock. The impact on NZ’s unique native bird species and the commercial poultry industry would be devastating. Birds would have no immunity, and the initial outbreak could possibly result in millions of deaths.
There would be a compulsory slaughter of all birds in a wide area around an infected zone – including backyard flocks – and those of any possible contacts.
Newcastle disease
What is it: a highly contagious viral infection Birds affected: many species of domestic and wild birds, most susceptible are poultry, turkeys, pigeons, and parrots.
Mortality rate: majority of a flock, within 72 hours.
Symptoms: fluffed up, lethargic, not eating much, laying odd eggs, uncoordinated movements (may fall off perches), twisted neck, head tilted, head shaking/tremors, circling, partial or total leg or wing paralysis, diarrhoea (sometimes bloody), difficulty breathing/gasping, convulsions.
Avian influenza
What is it: a highly contagious viral infection
Birds affected: all, domestic and wild, but particularly poultry. Many species of waterfowl, especially geese, ducks, and swans carry the virus but generally show no symptoms.
Mortality rate: up to 100% in poultry and turkeys.
Symptoms: fluffed up, depressed, little interest in eating or drinking, egg production drops, congested, sneezing, coughing, red, watery eyes, panting, difficulty breathing, head tilt, twisted neck, dark red skin with bluish tinge, diarrhoea, sudden death.
Infectious bursal disease (IBD)
What is it: a highly contagious viral infection
Birds affected: chicks aged 3-6 weeks, white Leghorns are more susceptible than meat breeds and brown-egg layers.
Mortality rate: up to 60% in poultry
Symptoms: first sign is often watery or white diarrhoea that forms a paste around the vent, may be bloody, chicks peck at their vents, depression, no appetite, dehydration, huddling, ruffled feathers, sitting, sleeping with their beak touching the floor.