Ziekteverwekker
Duck virus enteritis (DVE) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting waterfowl. This disease is caused by the anatid herpesvirus-1, also known as the DVE virus. This virus belongs to the Alphaherpesvirinae, a subfamily of the Herpesviridae.
DVE strains can differ in pathogenicity (virulence) but are immunologically identical. The incubation period is usually 3–7 days. The virus initially replicates in the mucous membrane (mucosa) of the gastrointestinal tract, particularly the esophagus. From there, it spreads to the bursa of Fabricius, thymus, spleen, and liver. Once clinical signs have appeared, death usually follows after 1–5 days.
Gevoelige diersoorten
Ducks, geese, and swans, belonging to the family Anatidae, are susceptible to this virus. Other bird species, mammals, and humans are immune.
Musket ducks, in particular, are very susceptible to duck plague.
Symptomen dieren
The symptoms depend on the species, immune status, age, and sex of the infected birds, as well as the pathogenicity of the virus. Described symptoms include: photosensitivity accompanied by partially closed eyelids, extreme thirst, loss of appetite, limp legs (ataxia), and increased nasal discharge. The animals often have watery diarrhea. Sick birds often support themselves on their wings to stand upright. The overall picture is one of sick, weak animals.
Besmetting dieren
The primary way in which waterfowl become infected is through direct contact with one another or through contact with a contaminated environment, particularly water, but also via grass. In Muscovy ducks, Peking ducks, and mallards, it has been demonstrated that the virus can also be transmitted from the egg to the ducklings via vertical transmission.
Voorzorgsmaatregelen
Overpopulation is often a contributing cause of an outbreak; concentrations of sensitive species must be avoided. The advice is not to feed waterfowl, in order to prevent high concentrations of animals.