Ahead of the NSW state election on 25 March 2023, the NSW Government caretaker period has commenced. Limited updates will be made to this website during this period.
Pigeon Paramyxovirus is an endemic notifiable disease in NSW.
Pigeon paramyxovirus (PPMV-1) has been isolated in domestic and feral pigeons in New South Wales and Victoria however it is not nationally notifiable. Initial clinical signs noted in affected pigeons include depression, ruffled feathers, increased thirst, inappetance and diarrhoea. Nervous signs such as head and wing tremors, partial paralysis of wings and legs and twisting of the neck (torticollis) can occur. Affected birds can recover from infection.
Pigeon paramyxovirus has been rarely reported in other bird species (sparrow hawk and spotted turtle dove) but there is no known human infection.
A vaccination program which includes an annual booster is recommended to protect young and newly introduced birds.
Diagnosis of pigeon paramyxovirus is suggested by clinical signs, gross pathology and histopathology and confirmed with PCR.
Test | Sample(s) required | Days of the week test is conducted | Turnaround time1 |
---|---|---|---|
Pigeon paramyxovirus real time PCR2 | Swab in PBGS | According to demand | 2-3 days |
Histopathology examination | Fixed tissue | Monday –Friday | Up to 5 days |
1 Turnaround times are provided as a guide only. For specific information about your submission please contact Customer Service.
2 This test is not NATA accredited.