Spain has lost its “Newcastle Disease-free” status following four confirmed outbreaks in the Llutxent municipality, Valencia province. The index case was detected on December 29, 2025, at a broiler farm holding about 15,000 birds, followed by three secondary outbreaks on January 2, 2026, affecting over 65,000 birds in total.
Outbreak Details and Epidemiological Investigations
Preliminary tests by the regional laboratory and the Avian and Food Quality Centre of the Valencian Community confirmed avian paramyxovirus 1 (APMV-1), with final validation from the national laboratory in Algete. Authorities established direct epidemiological links between the primary outbreak and secondary cases, all within the designated protection zone. These represent Spain’s first significant incidents since 2022, when cases were limited to Almeria in Andalusia.
Control Measures Implemented
The Valencian Ministry of Agriculture promptly activated health protocols: mandatory veterinary inspections, movement restrictions, and intensified surveillance in protection and surveillance zones. These steps aim to contain the highly contagious spread among poultry and birds, posing no human health risk. The national RASVE committee convened an emergency meeting to track developments, alongside other pathogens like avian influenza.
Implications for the European Poultry Sector
Losing ND-free status triggers trade restrictions and underscores the urgent need for rigorous biosecurity in broiler farms. Amid rising sanitary pressures (avian influenza in poultry, Lumpy Skin Disease in cattle), Spanish operators must enhance vaccinations and prevention protocols. For Italy and the EU, these events highlight the importance of cross-border vigilance under Regulation EU 2016/429.
