Review on Infectious Bursal Disease, Newcastle Disease, Marek’s Disease and Avian Pox

Viral diseases are posing a growing threat to the young poultry industry flourishing in the country. Infectious bursal disease, Newcastle disease, Marek’s disease (MD), and Fowl pox are among the serious threats to poultry production. IBD is considered as AIDS of chicken since it severely affects the immune system of chicken. NDV is a human pathogen and the most common sign of infection in humans is conjunctivitis. Marek’s disease (MD) is a lymphomatous and neuropathic disease of domestic fowl. Avian pox is a viral disease of a wide range of both domestic and wild bird species. It is a slow-spreading and characterized by the formation of proliferative lesions and scabs on the skin, and diphtheritic lesions in the upper parts of the digestive and respiratory tracts. Many viral diseases of poultry can be diagnosed on the basis of clinical signs together with post mortem findings and histopathological changes. However, confirmation of the involvement of specific viral pathogens requires specific laboratory procedures. There is no specific treatment for viral diseases of poultry. However, antibiotics are sometimes given in viral disease outbreaks to prevent secondary infection with bacteria. The most practical way to control viral diseases in poultry and prevent losses through effective biosecurity practices, timely vaccination and good hygiene accompanied by improved management is therefore of the greatest importance at all times.