Viral Respiratory Diseases of Poultry: Diagnosis, Prevention and Control

Respiratory viral diseases in poultry, including infectious bronchitis (IB), Newcastle disease (ND), infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT), avian influenza (AI), and avian pneumovirus (APV), significantly impact the poultry industry worldwide. Among these, infectious bronchitis remains the most prevalent due to its ability to rapidly mutate and alter its antigenic properties. New serotypes and variant strains are continuously reported globally, posing challenges to the effectiveness of currently available vaccines. Consequently, vaccination programs are frequently updated to enhance protection against emerging field isolates. Infectious laryngotracheitis has emerged as a serious concern in the broiler industry, requiring improved vaccines to control its spread. In the United States, highly pathogenic forms of avian influenza and velogenic Newcastle disease have been controlled through eradication programs, while other regions rely on effective vaccines for these diseases. Avian pneumovirus infection, though an emerging concern, is increasingly affecting both chickens and turkeys, adding to the complexity of respiratory disease management in poultry.