A surge of Newcastle Disease (ND) cases has been reported across Europe in 2026, affecting poultry production and triggering emergency measures.The outbreak was confirmed by World Organisation for Animal Health. Authorities have imposed movement bans, culling, and strict biosecurity measures to contain the spread.
Major outbreaks were notified in Poland, Germany, Spain, Czechia, Lithuania, and Slovakia.
- Poland worst affected: over 5 lakh birds culled
- Germany: ~3.26 lakh hens culled in Brandenburg
What is Newcastle Disease (ND)?
Newcastle Disease is a highly contagious viral infection affecting poultry and wild birds, caused by avian paramyxovirus type-1 (APMV-1).
- Major threat to poultry industry and food supply chains
- Can cause severe respiratory, neurological, and digestive symptoms
- Mortality can reach up to 100% in severe cases
It exists in three forms based on severity:
- Lentogenic (mild)
- Mesogenic (moderate)
- Velogenic (highly virulent and deadly)
Key Characteristics
High Contagiousness
- Spreads rapidly in dense poultry farms
- Virus survives in cool environments and contaminated surfaces
Limited Human Risk
- Not a major food safety threat if poultry is properly cooked
- Rare cases may cause mild conjunctivitis in humans handling infected birds
Symptoms of Newcastle Disease
- Respiratory Symptoms: Gasping, coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge
- Nervous Symptoms: Tremors, twisted neck (torticollis), paralysis, spasms
- Digestive Issues: Greenish diarrhoea, dehydration
- Reproductive Impact: Sharp drop in egg production (up to 100%) and Deformed or soft-shelled eggs
- General Signs: Sudden death, ruffled feathers, depression
Transmission Mechanisms
The virus spreads through:
- Direct contact with infected birds (droppings, secretions)
- Indirect transmission via contaminated equipment, vehicles, clothes (fomites)
- Wild birds, rodents, insects acting as carriers
- Outbreaks intensify in high-density poultry systems.
Why the Current Outbreak is Concerning
- Occurring even in vaccinated farms, indicating gaps in biosecurity
- Spread across multiple regions of Europe
- Threat to poultry supply chains and food security
Prevention and Control Measures
Vaccination
- Use of live/inactivated vaccines (B1, LaSota strains)
- Administered via water, spray, or eye drops
Biosecurity Measures
- Restrict farm access, disinfect equipment and vehicles
- Use footbaths, protective clothing
- Control wild birds and pests
- Quarantine new birds (21–30 days)
Surveillance and Reporting
- Early detection and reporting of cases
- Immediate culling and quarantine during outbreaks
- Movement restrictions to prevent spread