Definition & Meaning of "newcastle disease"

What is "newcastle disease"?

Newcastle disease is a highly contagious infection that mainly affects birds, particularly poultry such as chickens and turkeys, but can also impact wild birds. It is caused by the newcastle disease virus (NDV), which belongs to the family Paramyxoviridae. The virus can cause a range of symptoms in birds, including respiratory problems, nervous system disorders, diarrhea, and a drop in egg production. In serious cases, it can lead to high death rates in poultry. Newcastle disease can spread quickly through direct contact between birds, as well as through contaminated feed, water, equipment, and clothing. Vaccination, maintaining strict hygiene practices, and limiting contact with wild birds are essential preventive measures to control outbreaks of newcastle disease in poultry populations.