Avian Paramyxovirus fact sheet for pigeon owners

A strain of Avian Paramyxovirus not previously reported in Australia has been detected in a number of hobby pigeon flocks in Victoria.
The Department of Primary Industries is undertaking investigations to determine the spread of disease and to detect other affected properties.
Key clinical signs include:

• lethargy;
• gastrointestinal signs such as diarrhoea;
• neurological signs including head shaking; and
• death.

If you have noticed any of these signs in your birds please contact your private veterinarian or the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

Disinfection and decontamination:

Detergent is suitable for disinfection. Thoroughly clean away any organic material such as faeces, dirt or litter and allow the area to soak with soapy water for ten minutes.

Biosecurity recommendations for pigeon fanciers

The main tools currently available to reduce the risk of spread to other lofts are good biosecurity and minimising contact with other flocks or birds. Until the situation in Victoria is clarified avoid trading, racing and showing. Introductions of new pigeons to existing lofts should be avoided if possible.
Protect your flock by:

• not taking birds to shows, fairs or race meets;
• not trading or introducing new birds;
• isolating and closely monitoring introduced birds or birds that have been to races or shows for 14 days (feed and water these isolated birds last and wash and change afterwards); 
• disinfecting equipment used to house, transport feed or water birds from outside your flock or birds that have travelled to shows;
• removing stray birds from your loft;
• avoiding visitors to your loft; and
• disinfecting boots and washing hands and clothes if you visit other lofts.

Several vaccines are registered to protect poultry against Avian Paramyxovirus and your veterinarian may prescribe a vaccine to protect your pigeons. It is not known how effective these vaccines will be against the strain of virus currently causing disease in Australian pigeons.

Does the disease affect humans?

Human infection with this virus is extremely rare and usually occurs only in people who have close direct contact with infected birds. The virus causes only mild, short-term conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva – the outermost layer of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids). Consult your doctor if you develop symptoms.
People handling sick birds should wear face and eye protection and gloves and wash with warm soapy water after handling birds.

Does the disease affect other birds?

Paramyxovirus strains are generally capable of affecting other avian species. At this stage, the disease has only been detected in pigeons.

Are my pets at risk?

There is no threat to dogs, cats and other non-avian species that come into contact with infected pigeons.

For further information please visit the Department of Primary Industries website