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Vogel-Porträt

Virus detection in parrots:
Targeted analysis for early detection

Like all animal species, parrots are susceptible to various viruses that can cause a wide range of health problems. Some of these viruses can occur in both wild and domestic populations and are untreatable, meaning they cannot be removed with medication.


The closer the birds are to each other, the higher the risk of infection. Early identification of infected birds can help ensure the well-being of the animals and prevent potentially serious consequences.

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WHY IS VIRUS DETECTION IMPORTANT?

Avian bornaviruses (ABV)

These viruses can cause neurological symptoms in parrots and other birds, such as behavioral changes, convulsions and paralysis. The pathological dilation of the glandular stomach of parrots
(PDD), which is also related to ABV,
can cause death by starvation, especially in macaws. Detection enables early identification and treatment of symptoms in affected birds.

Avian polyomaviruses (APV)

This virus can cause very different symptoms in parrots, depending on the species, including feathering disorders, fatigue and increased mortality of the nestlings. The disease occurs primarily in young birds and
is often fatal. Early detection helps to contain outbreaks.

Parrot circovirus (PBFDV)

PBFDV weakens the immune system of infected animals. Classic symptoms such as feathering disorders and abnormal beak growth
do not necessarily have to occur. These birds that are asymptomatic but nevertheless infected are called "virus carriers" and endanger the rest of the population. Early detection is therefore crucial to contain the spread and treat affected birds.

How does it work?

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Our laboratory is specialized in testing various types of samples for the DNA of the viruses APV (avian polyomavirus) and PBFDV (parrot circovirus). For testing, we recommend sending

  • 3-4 freshly plucked feathers (no down)

  • 2-3 drops of EDTA blood

  • a drop of dried blood on clean filter paper or

  • a cloaca swab

For optimal safety, we recommend sending feathers + blood or feathers + cloacal swabs from the same bird.

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Feathers are the preferred sample material for detecting avian bornavirus (ABV) , the cause of neuropathic glandular dilatation (PDD). Our studies and experience show that ABV RNA can be detected stably in quills for weeks, while it is difficult to detect in blood and can only be detected for a short time in swabs.

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Since circoviruses (PBFDV) in particular are highly resistant to conventional disinfectants, we recommend checking the cage or aviary for the presence of circoviruses before introducing a parrot. A sterile cotton swab (available from us) can be used to wipe down the bars and perches. The swab is then sent to our laboratory for analysis. If a previous resident of the cage or aviary was infected with PBFDV, repopulation is only advisable when the virus can no longer be detected. This test is not necessary for new cages or aviaries.

Contact

Perhaps you have your own ideas and concepts about what you want from laboratory diagnostics. Please feel free to contact us.

Immermannstraße 65A

40210 Düsseldorf

Germany

kontakt@zk-vet.de

Dr. rer. nat. Sascha Scharf | Laboratory lead (biologist)

0521 4007 6079

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Dr. rer. nat. Alexander Dudziak | Project lead (biologist)

0211 27101 1481

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Daniel Lauck | Laboratory lead (BTA)

0211 27101 1403

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