A new paramyxovirus (PMV1) not previously reported in Australia was detected in ‘fancy’ pigeons in mid-August 2011 and in racing pigeons in mid-September in the Goulburn Valley and a number of suburbs across Melbourne. The virus was identified as PMV1 in late August. Pigeon shows, exhibitions, markets, sales, auctions and racing were banned in Victoria from 28th September for 90 days. Racing and shows observed a voluntary ban in South Australia. The disease spreads mainly by the movement of infected birds.
The first cases were from Shepparton/Tatura and in the north western suburbs of Melbourne. By the end of September there were confirmed outbreaks on 35 infected properties. During October PMV1 was detected in wild pigeons near Epping, Ivanhoe, Greensborough and Mornington. By the end of October there were 46 infected properties with the latest confirmation on 26th October. 20 of the properties have been cleared. Reports of new infected properties declined.
Affected pigeon flocks experience high mortalities (often all pigeons die). Sick birds are lethargic, not flying and may vomit a white tinged fluid with death in about three days. Symptoms may include: diarrhoea, gasping, coughing, sneezing, and rales. Affected birds may also possibly display tremors, paralysed wings, twisted necks, circling, spasms, and paralysis. If anyone sees pigeons with these symptoms they should contact the Emergency Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888.
NSW and South Australia banned pigeons coming from Victoria and declared PMV1 a notifiable exotic disease. The declaration gives the states extra powers to manage suspected cases and quarantine any infected properties.
Humans are rarely infected with the virus but it can cause headaches and flu-like symptoms and can develop conjunctivitis, which is usually mild and lasts for 12 days.
Despite experts fearing PMV1 could spread to chickens, as has already happened in Europe and the UK, nBottom of Form
o poultry have tested positive and there is no evidence of unusual disease events in commercial or backyard flocks.