RNA Viruses - Infectious Bronchitis Virus Research by University of Padua Discloses Interesting Findings

Strategic Insights -

According to a recent study conducted in a multi-age, multi-species, two-site rural dealer farm in Northeast Italy, the rural sector of poultry production appears to be a potential hotspot for the maintenance, spread, and evolution of infectious agents. Despite representing a small niche of the overall production, rural farming has lower managerial and biosecurity levels and frequent exchanges of live animals among establishments, making it a high-risk area for viral circulation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) and avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) were extensively circulating in 43 flocks of different species over a 5-month period, resulting in 130 pools of respiratory swabs.
  • IBV was detected in 58 samples from 23 chicken flocks, and aMPV was detected in 35 samples from 22 flocks of chickens, ducks, and guinea fowls.
  • The detected IBVs belonged to 5 different IBV lineages, including two recombinant strains, while all aMPV strains belonged to subtype B, except for a single aMPV/A detection.
  • Clinical manifestations were limited in frequency and severity, possibly due to lower population density and environmental stress compared to intensive farms.
  • The evolution of multiple genetic types without proper monitoring nor control may favor the emergence and spread of pathogenic variants, causing detriment to the poultry sector.

Statistics:

  • 43 flocks of different species were periodically sampled over a 5-month period.
  • 130 pools of respiratory swabs were obtained, with 58 samples positive for IBV and 35 samples positive for aMPV.
  • 5 different IBV lineages were detected, including two recombinant strains.
  • 22 flocks of chickens, ducks, and guinea fowls were positive for aMPV.

Sources:

  • The role of the rural poultry sector in viral circulation and evolution: evaluation of infectious bronchitis virus and avian metapneumovirus dynamics in an Italian dealer farm. Poultry Science, 2025;104(9):105420.
  • NewsRx. University of Padua Reports Findings in Infectious Bronchitis Virus (The role of the rural poultry sector in viral circulation and evolution: evaluation of infectious bronchitis virus and avian metapneumovirus dynamics in an Italian dealer farm). Agriculture Week. July 3, 2025; p 359.