Avipoxvirus is a member of the family Poxviridae. Poxviridae is the family of viruses which cause the victim organism to have poxes as a symptom. Poxviruses have generally large genomes, and other such examples include smallpox and monkeypox. Members of the genus Avipoxvirus infect specifically birds. Avipoxviruses are unable to complete their replication cycle in non avian species.Although it is comparably slow-spreading, Avipoxvirus is known to cause symptoms like pustules full of pus lining the skin and diphtheria-like symptoms. These diphtheria-like symptoms might include dipitheric necrotic membranes lining the mouth and the upper respiratory tract. Like other avian viruses, it can be transmitted through vectors mechanically such as through mosquitoes.[2] There is no evidence that this virus can infect humans.
History and prevalence
Avipoxvirus affects more than 230 species of wild and domestic birds worldwide.It affects a variety of birds including chickens, turkeys, songbirds, upland game birds, seabirds, pets, and occasionally raptors, but is rarely found in waterfowl and shore birds. Its prevalence among wild populations is unknown due to lack of studies It is most common in temperate (warm and humid) climates. All cases in North America have relatively recent. The United States Geological Survey has reported an increased number of cases in multiple countries with new affected bird species added in recent years. This suggests avian pox is an emerging viral disease.
Mosquitoes that feed on birds are the most consistent and efficient transmitters of the virus. There appears to be a relationship between this virus and seasonal mosquito cycles. For example, in California and Oregon, prevalence is lowest in the dry summer months than the wetter seasons of fall and winter. However, more research is required to test this theory.
Clinical signs
Lesions of the skin and diphtheritic membrane of the respiratory tract are common when domesticated and wild birds are infected with the Avipoxvirus. There are two common forms of clinical signs. Cutaneous pox are most common. They appear as wart-like growths around the eyes and other apterylae (feather-free) areas, sometimes in large clusters. Pock lesions can be concentrated or spread out.[9] The size and number of growths depend on the severity of the infection. Diphtheritic, or wet, pox are characterized as raised yellow blemishes on mucus membranes of the mouth, esophagus, trachea, and lungs. These can lead to difficulty breathing or swallowing. In both cases, birds may appear weak and emaciated.
The infection of Avipoxvirus can lead to decreased egg production, reduced growth, blindness, and increased mortality in domestic poultry. In wild bird species, elevated predation secondary infections, trauma, reduced male mating success, and death are common results.
1. Our company is established in 1999. It is a high-technology group specializing in researching,developing,manufacturing and selling animal health care products and providing technical service for breeding and administration.
2. Qualified company for EUROPE FAMIQS Certificate for Herbal Products, and international ISO 9001 and ISO 14001.
3. Board Chairman Unit of Beijing Veterinary Association
4. Our products have been exported to more than 50 countries in Asia, Europe, Africa, and South America, such as Janpan, Sudan, Italy, Portugal, Croatia, etc.