In the bustling live bird markets (LBMs) of Nigeria, a silent battle is being waged against an invisible foe: the avian paramyxovirus type 1 (APMV-1), the causative agent of Newcastle disease (ND). This highly contagious virus is not just a threat to poultry health but also a significant hurdle to sustainable agriculture and food security in the region. A recent study, led by Abel B. Ekiri from the Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences at the University of Surrey, has shed light on the extent of this problem, revealing alarming figures that should concern everyone from farmers to policymakers.
The study, published in BMC Veterinary Research, investigated the active circulation and seroprevalence of NDV in poultry at LBMs across three Nigerian states: Kano, Oyo, and Abuja. The findings were stark. Using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR), the research team detected APMV-1 RNA in 21.5% of samples collected from these markets. This means that more than one in five birds tested positive for the virus, with at least one positive sample found in 55.6% of the markets surveyed. “The prevalence of APMV-1 in these markets is a clear indication that the virus is actively circulating and posing a significant threat to poultry health and productivity,” Ekiri stated.
The genetic analysis of the virus revealed that genotype XIV.2 APMV-1, a virulent strain, was circulating within Nigeria. This strain has been previously described in the country, suggesting a persistent and ongoing issue. The seroprevalence of APMV-1 antibodies was even higher, with 45.9% of birds testing positive. This high seroprevalence indicates that a large number of birds have been exposed to the virus, highlighting the widespread nature of the infection.
The commercial impacts of this research are profound. Newcastle disease can cause severe economic losses for poultry farmers due to high mortality rates, reduced egg production, and decreased meat quality. The study found that Kano had the highest proportion of APMV-1-positive markets, which could have significant implications for the region’s poultry industry. “The economic burden of ND on poultry farmers and LBM traders cannot be overstated,” Ekiri emphasized. “This disease not only affects the livelihoods of those directly involved in poultry production but also has broader implications for food security and public health.”
The findings underscore the urgent need for improved biosecurity practices and disease mitigation strategies. Training initiatives aimed at enhancing knowledge about APMV-1 infection and promoting vaccination programs could play a crucial role in reducing the impact of ND. The study also highlights the importance of continuous surveillance and monitoring to track the spread of the virus and implement effective control measures.
This research is a wake-up call for the poultry industry and policymakers in Nigeria. It underscores the need for a coordinated effort to address the threat posed by APMV-1 and ensure the sustainability of the poultry sector. As Ekiri noted, “The future of sustainable agriculture in Nigeria depends on our ability to manage and mitigate the impact of infectious diseases like ND. This requires a multi-faceted approach that includes improved biosecurity, vaccination, and continuous surveillance.”
The study, published in BMC Veterinary Research, serves as a foundation for future developments in the field. It provides valuable insights into the epidemiology of APMV-1 in Nigeria and highlights the need for targeted interventions to control the spread of the virus. By addressing the challenges posed by ND, the poultry industry can move towards a more resilient and sustainable future, ensuring food security and economic stability for millions of people.