Turkey Viral Hepatitis

Introduction

An infection of turkeys caused by an unidentified virus. Morbidity varies, mortality is 1-25%. Transmission may be by direct or indirect contact and possibly vertical. Birds remain carriers for up to 16 days.

Signs

  • Signs are usually subclinical.
  • Depression and sporadic deaths in birds in good condition.

Post-mortem lesions

  • Grey foci (c. 1 mm) coalescing.
  • Congestion.
  • Focal haemorrhage.
  • Bile staining.
  • Grey to pink foci in the pancreas.
  • Microscopically – no inclusion bodies.

Diagnosis

Isolation in CE, lesions pathognomonic. Differentiate from histomonosis, bacterial and fungal infections.

Treatment

None; with good management many birds recover.

Prevention

Good sanitation and management.

 

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