aMPV virus threatens poultry flocks

After years of trying to control deadly highly pathogenic avian influenza, turkey producers are also managing a different virus, called avian metapneumovirus. At least 2.2 million turkeys died last year due to this virus, according to the Minnesota Turkey Growers Association. Those deaths equate to an estimated $112 million in lost sales.

“The emergence of aMPV has created a new layer of economic uncertainty for our growers,” said Jake Vlaminck, president of MTGA. “Unlike HPAI, aMPV is not a reportable disease, meaning farmers are left without financial safeguards to recoup devastating losses.”

This virus is also known as aMPV or avian pneumovirus infection of turkeys. This illness leads to an acute respiratory tract infection of turkeys and often a secondary condition called swollen head syndrome or turkey rhinotracheitis. Symptoms include coughing, nasal discharge, swollen heads, ruffled feathers, depression, and in some cases, twisted necks.

Turkey hens with the virus may also experience decreased egg production and poor shell quality. Young and old birds suffer the highest mortality rates with this virus. Since aMPV is a virus, there is no cure, but vaccines are available for young birds.

Lacey Vilhauer can be reached at 620-277-1871 or [email protected].