BREAKING! New Lethal Avian Virus- aMPV B, That Causes Swollen Head Syndrome Has Emerged In Ontario-Canada!

Medical News: Unseen Threat - Avian Metapneumovirus Subtype B
Southern Ontario has recently become the epicenter of a startling development in the poultry industry. For the first time, the region has encountered Avian Metapneumovirus subtype B (aMPV B), a virus previously unheard of in this region. This virus has already caused significant damage, infecting and killing hundreds of turkeys in Ontario. The emergence of aMPV B, which primarily attacks the respiratory systems of birds, is a serious concern for the poultry industry and biosecurity in Ontario.


Ryan, A Canadian turkey infected with  Avian Metapneumovirus subtype B
(aMPV B) and suffering from swolle head syndrome. (The Turkey from Ontario
was named after a Canadian who was a mere biology professor and not a virologists
nor a clinician but was stupidlly naming some the emerging COVID-19 variants
and causing confusion!)
 
At present, although the aMPV B virus is not known to infect humans via zoonotic transmissions, it is premature to be complacent as the virus can easily evolve. Past studies and Medical News reports have shown that these avian metapneumoviruses can rapidly evolve under the right conditions and during massive spreads

Already current human metapneumovirus (HMPV) strains is assumed to have evolved following a zoonotic virus infection from an unknown avian reservoir host species, as this virus shares a common ancestor with avian metapneumovirus subtype C (AMPV-C).
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9028271/
 
The Arrival of aMPV B in Ontario
In recent months, two poultry farms in southwestern Ontario have reported devastating losses due to aMPV B. According to the World Animal Health Information System, 253 turkeys have died as a result of the virus. The affected farms include a site in Centre Wellington, north of Guelph, where 166 turkeys succumbed, and another in Huron-Kinloss in Bruce County, where 87 birds were lost.
 
This virus targets the respiratory system of birds, making it particularly problematic for poultry farms. The situation in Ontario is alarming, especially considering the simultaneous rise of highly contagious avian flu strains that have jumped from poultry to cows and even humans.
 
A Devastating Impact on Poultry Farms
Local Canadian scientists and researchers describe the situation as "very scary" due to the high risk posed by the virus. "It's a large threat," some emphasized, highlighting the necessity for stringent biosecurity measures on farms. These measures include vehicl e decontamination, mandatory showers for workers entering and leaving farm properties, and other rigorous sanitation processes.

Local expert’s primary concern is how commercial farmers will handle the news of the outbreak. The Feather Board Command Centre (FBCC), responsible for coordinating Ontario's poultry industry response to disease risks, has issued multiple urgent warnings. These warnings recommend heightened biosecurity protocols, particularly in Middlesex, Oxford, and Perth counties in Southern Ontario. The financial repercussions observed in the United States have made these warnings even more pertinent.
 
Biosecurity Measures and Industry Response
Despite these warnings, some experts note that commercial farmers may not always prioritize biosecurity to the same extent as specialized breeders. However, they believe awareness and nervousness are growing among farmers due to the potential for significant losses. "Everyone learns eventually, but many people never think it'll happen to them.”
 
The farming organization Turkey Farmers as been aware of the virus's arrival since late April and is collaborating with government and industry officials, as well as the FBCC, to address the situation. In a statement to the media, the organization reassured that aMPV does not present a food safety risk or human health concern.
 
The Nature of aMPV B and Its Effects
Avian Metapneumovirus is a highly contagious respiratory viral infection. It causes mild respiratory symptoms such as snicking, sneezing, and nasal discharge, along with swollen sinuses.
 
The source of the virus remains unidentified, although detections in wild birds suggest a possible role in transmission. Currently, no licensed vaccine for aMPV B is available in the U.S., making prevention and control through biosecurity measures crucial.
 
Swollen Head Syndrome
One of the most concerning manifestations of aMPV B is Swollen Head Syndrome (SHS). This condition results from secondary bacterial infections that the virus makes birds susceptible to. Symptoms include swollen heads, neurological signs, and severe respiratory distress. The high morbidity and mortality rates associated with SHS make it a formidable threat to poultry health.
 
The virus also causes torticollis, a condition where the head tilts uncontrollably. Birds in egg production can experience substantial drops in production.
 
Diagnostic Tests and Ongoing Research
Diagnosing aMPV involves detecting antibodies via ELISA tests, nucleic acid detection through PCR, and virus isolation. Several commercial ELISA kits are available, including the Idexx Avian Pneumovirus antibody test kit and the BioChek Avian rhinotracheitis antibody test kit. Molecular tests for detecting aMPV nucleic acid are available through traditional and real-time RT-PCR methods.
 
The Poultry Diagnostic and Research Center (PDRC) offers various diagnostic tests, including aMPV reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR) for subtypes A, B, and C, as well as virus isolation. These tests are vital for identifying and managing outbreaks of aMPV B.
 
Implications for the Poultry Industry
The emergence of aMPV B in Ontario has significant implications for the poultry industry. The virus's high contagiousness and the severe impact on bird health and productivity underscore the need for vigilant biosecurity practices. Experts anticipate that the emergence of ths novel virus will challenge the industry, but they remain optimistic about the potential for managing the outbreak. “It is manageable, but as with other diseases, all will go through some hard times and be better off once they do."
 
Farmers must remain vigilant to prevent the virus from spreading further. The experience of dealing with aMPV B will likely lead to improved biosecurity measures and a more robust response to future outbreaks.
 
Conclusion: A Call for Vigilance and Preparedness
The appearance of Avian Metapneumovirus subtype B in Ontario is a stark reminder of the constant threats faced by the poultry industry. As farmers and industry officials work together to combat this new virus, the importance of biosecurity and preparedness cannot be overstated. The lessons learned from this outbreak will be crucial in safeguarding the health of poultry and the viability of farms in the region.
 
Moving forward, the poultry industry must continue to prioritize biosecurity, invest in research, and develop strategies to mitigate the impact of such diseases. The collaborative efforts of farmers, industry organizations, and government agencies will be essential in overcoming this challenge and ensuring the sustainability of poultry farming in Ontario and beyond.
 
For the more updates about the Avian Metapneumovirus Subtype B outbreak in Ontario-Canada, keep on logging to Thailand Medical News.
 
Read Also:
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/central-and-south-america-facing-an-oropouche-fever-outbreak
 
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/new-nidoviruses-the-next-global-health-challenge
 
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/what-s-going-on-in-california-san-francisco-chronice-reports-about-growing-viral-loads-of-flu-viruses-in-wastewater