Hungary has confirmed outbreaks of Newcastle disease on two commercial broiler farms in Bács-Kiskun County, according to the country’s National Food Chain Safety Office (Nébih).
The disease was detected in Fülöpháza, in the Kecskemét district. The two farms housed approximately 220,000 broilers in total. This is reportedly the first confirmed occurrence of Newcastle disease in Hungary’s commercial poultry sector in several decades, with the last official report dating back to 1992.
Clinical signs reported
The suspicion of infection arose after the flocks developed clinical signs compatible with Newcastle disease. These included increased mortality, lower feed and water consumption, and greenish diarrhoea.
Laboratory testing by Nébih confirmed the presence of Newcastle disease virus on 8 September.
Culling and control zones
The national chief veterinarian ordered the culling of the affected flocks after the disease was suspected. Authorities have also established a 3-kilometre protection zone and a 10-kilometre surveillance zone around the infected farms.
Poultry keepers have been instructed to maintain strict biosecurity and to report unusual mortality or clinical signs without delay.
Further investigations under way
An epidemiological investigation has been launched in connection with the outbreaks.
Newcastle disease is a highly contagious viral disease that can spread rapidly among poultry populations and cause severe disease and mortality.
The two confirmed holdings are located in Fülöpháza, while the authorities have established protection and surveillance zones around the affected premises.
