Fowlpox Virus Infection in a Pekin Duck (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus) Breeder Flock

A breeder flock of 3200 Pekin ducks (<i>Anas platyrhynchos domesticus</i>) experienced a pox virus infection, which affected 40% to 45% of the flock and lasted for a period of 6 wk. No biting insects or equipment that could have caused injury were found, although injury was considered to be the inciting factor. Feed and water consumption as well as egg production and hatchability were unaffected. Pox lesions occurred primarily on the bill, with some ducks having lesions on the eyelid. Infection was confirmed by gross and microscopic examination of affected hens as well as PCR and DNA sequencing. Genetic analysis revealed that the isolate causing the infection was related to pox viral infections in other wild waterfowl found in the United States. This is the first documented case of a naturally occurring pox virus infection in commercial Pekin ducks in the United States.