International White Dove Society Newsletter

Paramyxovirus (PMV)
A Preventable Problem

Paramyxovirus is a relatively new disease in pigeons, being first observed in the 1970's and arriving in Germany in 1982. Since that time it has spread and is now very common. People can't catch it! But to pigeons, it can be deadly. It is closely related to Newcastle Disease in chickens, but certainly different. There are no respiratory symptoms in pigeons as is common in chickens.

Signs and Symptoms
The most common times of the year for infections to occur is from August to November, but it can occur at any time. The most common symptoms are increased water drinking, watery feces with a lot of urine and a snake-like" appearance to the fecal material (see image below) and nervous signs such as trembling or even paralysis. Because the kidneys are infected, this can cause disruption to the ability of birds to maintain their hydration with water. If the disease progresses, the damage to the kidneys may be permanent and the individuals may have watery feces for the rest of their lives.

The central nervous system can also be affected, and this can lead to trembling, partial paralysis, head movements and a twisted neck. Sometimes birds have a difficult time eating and/or drinking because of this.

The entire flock will usually catch the disease, which is spread by mouth or in the air, but it is not extremely fatal. If there are no severe nervous symptoms, birds can recover very well and resume all activity including flying long distances. However, if the weather is very hot, birds that have sustained kidney damage may become dehydrated easily. This can lead to losses during hot weather.

If your birds have watery feces and do not loose weight with occasional nervous signs but no respiratory symptoms in the flock and low mortality (5%) -- suspect PMV.

What to do when your flock is infected
PMV is easily controlled with a vaccine. There are several types that can be administrated as an innoculation beneath the skin or in the drinking water or even as eye drops. Be sure to read the directions for the vaccine that you are using. . It is best when used as a preventative, but if PMV is suspected, immediately vaccinate your flock. Be sure to revaccinate annually.

Dos and Don'ts
Don't be afraid to cull birds that are severely damaged.
Don't vaccinate chicks less than 6 weeks of age.
Do keep your loft clean and disinfect shelves and perches regularly.
Do vaccinate annually.
Do add B vitamins and electrolytes to water if birds are dehydrated.
Do not give antibiotics to treat PMV -- it is a virus.

Abnormal Feces with lots of watery urine

Health Corner