Andhra Pradesh has recorded the death of lakhs of chickens in some areas, causing farmers a heavy loss. The reason behind their death is Ranikhet disease. The animal husbandry departments in various districts are collecting samples for lab tests and a comprehensive study of death causes. Faecal discharge by migratory birds is supposed to be the major reason behind the spread of the disease.
About the disease
- Ranikhet disease, which has been designated as avian paramyxovirus-1 (APMV-1), is highly infectious and primarily spreads among birds, especially poultry, such as chickens, turkeys, and ducks.
- Newcastle disease virus (NDV), which is also known as avian avulavirus 1, is the main cause of the disease.
- It affects various body parts of birds, such as the respiratory, nervous, and digestive systems, and badly disturbs their fertility.
- It can also affect humans but mildly.
- The disease spreads through the secretions of infected birds, contaminated feed, water, etc.
What are the symptoms of Ranikhet disease?
- Symptoms vary as per the age and health of the birds. However, sneezing, gasping, and droopiness among young birds need to be observed, as they could be the first signs.
- When the disease affects the respiratory system, death occurs.
Prevention and treatment
- It’s important to ensure that birds don’t consume the litter of affected ones.
- Dead birds must be buried in deep pits with lime.
- As far as treatment is concerned, there is no effective treatment available for now.
Actions by the administration
- The administration departments of affected districts have initiated biosecurity measures to control the spread of the disease.
- They are also planning to declare the affected poultry farms and egg collection centres as red zones.
