In a recent study, researchers have shed light on the persistent challenge posed by Newcastle disease virus (NDV) in backyard chickens across the Jimma Zone of Southwest Ethiopia. This region, like many others in Africa, struggles with the implications of NDV, which can devastate poultry populations and, by extension, local economies reliant on these birds for food and income.
The research, led by Bezina Arega Emeru from the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, National Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center, focused on understanding the immune response of local chickens to NDV and identifying the circulating genotypes. The findings reveal that a significant portion of the backyard chickens tested—68.8%—were seropositive for NDV, yet only 15.5% of the swab samples returned positive results via RT-PCR. This discrepancy raises important questions about the effectiveness of current diagnostic methods and the overall health of the poultry in the region.
Emeru noted, “Our study indicates that while many birds show some level of antibody response, the actual viral presence is concerning, especially among those with low antibody titers.” This situation highlights a potential vulnerability in the poultry population, as birds with lower antibody levels may be more susceptible to severe outbreaks, which can lead to significant economic losses for farmers.
Interestingly, the research did not find a statistically significant correlation between traditional risk factors—such as breed, age, and sex—and virus exposure. However, it did reveal that local breeds, younger birds, and males were at a higher risk according to RT-PCR results. In contrast, seropositivity was more prevalent in young and female birds. These nuances suggest that farmers might need to adjust their management strategies, potentially focusing on vaccination and biosecurity measures tailored to specific demographics within their flocks.
The study also highlights a concerning trend: the viral isolates were almost identical to each other and classified as velogenic, with genotype VII.1.1 being predominant. This genetic similarity could indicate a shared source of infection, underscoring the need for a coordinated regional approach to disease control. “The high viral similarity between neighboring countries emphasizes the urgency for a comprehensive strategy that transcends borders,” Emeru added.
For the agricultural sector, these findings are crucial. They not only inform poultry farmers about the risks facing their flocks but also signal the need for enhanced surveillance and vaccination programs. As the global poultry industry continues to grapple with NDV, the insights from this research could drive future innovations in disease management, ensuring that farmers can better protect their livelihoods and maintain food security in their communities.
This study was published in ‘BMC Veterinary Research’, a journal that focuses on the intersection of veterinary science and public health. As the agricultural landscape evolves, the implications of such research will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping effective strategies to combat infectious diseases in poultry, fostering resilience in the face of ongoing challenges.