What is the New Castle Disease Virus?
Newcastle disease virus (NDV) is an enveloped negative single-stranded RNA virus belonging to the family, Paramyxoviridae, and is a zoonotic virus that affects, many species of birds and it can be transmitted to humans where it causes conjunctivitis and an influenza-like disease. Disease caused by the New Castle virus is known as New Castle virus disease.
Who is more prone to get affected by the New Castle Disease Virus?
• Poultry crews or People in direct contact with infected poultry or other birds.
• Vaccination crews or laboratory workers can get exposed to the virus during their work.
• No instance of human transmission through handling or consuming of poultry products is known.
What is the mode of transmission of the New Castle Disease Virus?
Transmission occurs by: –
• Exposure to faecal and other excretions from infected birds via ingestion (faecal/oral route) and inhalation
• Contact with contaminated food, water, equipment, and clothing.
What is the incubation period of the New Castle Disease Virus?
The incubation period is 24 hours following eye exposure.
What are the signs and symptoms of the New Castle Disease Virus?
• Unilateral or bilateral reddening of the eye
• Excessive lachrymation
• Oedema of the eyelids
• Conjunctivitis
• Sub-conjunctival haemorrhage
• Headache
• Flu-like symptoms
What are the investigations of the New Castle Disease Virus?
• Identification of conjunctivitis
• Isolation of virus
• Serology test
• Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay test
• Polymerase chain reaction test
What treatment is advised for the New Castle Disease Virus?
• There is no treatment or vaccine available for Newcastle Disease.
• Antibiotics to control secondary infections
• Supportive treatment for viral conjunctivitis
What is the prognosis of the New Castle Disease Virus?
Recovery is usually rapid. The virus will not be present in the eye fluids after four to seven days
What is the differential diagnosis of the New Castle Disease Virus?
• Avian influenza
• Fowl cholera
• Chlamydiosis
• Mycoplasmosis
Also Read: Chicken Pox
What management is helpful for the New Castle Disease Virus?
• Wear protective clothing such as gloves, and safety glasses when working with birds or poultry
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with birds or poultry.
• Avoid touching your eyes until your hands have been washed.
• Laboratory workers or vaccination crews must take necessary precautions.
What are the names of commonly indicated Homeopathic remedies for the New Castle Disease Virus?
The commonly indicated Homeopathic remedies are as follows: –
• Euphrasia
• Argentum Nitricum
• Belladonna
• Apis Mel
• Sulphur
• Pulsatilla
