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Ranikhet Disease, also known as Newcastle Disease (ND), is a highly contagious viral infection affecting poultry and other birds. It is caused by the Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV), a member of the Paramyxoviridae family. The disease leads to severe economic losses in the poultry industry and is a concern for food security, rural livelihoods, and veterinary health.
For UPSC aspirants, understanding Ranikhet Disease is important for topics related to science and technology, agriculture, economy, and public health. This eBook provides a detailed analysis of its causes, symptoms, transmission, prevention, and control measures.
What is Ranikhet Disease?
Named after Ranikhet (Uttarakhand, India), where it was first reported in 1926.
Also known as Newcastle Disease (ND) globally.
Affects domestic poultry (chickens, ducks, turkeys) and wild birds.
Causes high mortality rates and economic losses in poultry farming.
Causative Agent
Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV)
Belongs to the Avulavirus genus of the Paramyxoviridae family.
Exists in three strains:
Velogenic (highly virulent) – Causes severe outbreaks and high mortality.
Mesogenic (moderate virulence) – Causes moderate symptoms.
Lentogenic (low virulence) – Mild infections, often used in vaccines.
Symptoms in Poultry
Ranikhet Disease affects the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems of birds.
Respiratory Symptoms:
Coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge.
Labored breathing and wheezing.
Digestive Symptoms:
Greenish diarrhea.
Loss of appetite and weight loss.
Nervous Symptoms:
Twisting of the neck (torticollis).
Paralysis of wings and legs.
Tremors and incoordination.
Other Symptoms:
Drop in egg production in laying hens.
Soft-shelled or misshapen eggs.
Sudden high mortality rate (up to 100% in severe cases).
Symptoms in Humans
Newcastle Disease is zoonotic, but its effects on humans are mild.
Symptoms include conjunctivitis (eye infection) and mild flu-like symptoms.
No severe health risks, but poultry workers should take precautions.
Modes of Transmission
Ranikhet Disease spreads rapidly through direct and indirect contact.
Direct Transmission:
Infected birds transmit the virus through saliva, feces, nasal discharge, and respiratory droplets.
Close contact between healthy and infected birds leads to rapid spread.
Indirect Transmission:
Contaminated feed, water, and equipment.
Farm workers’ clothing and footwear.
Wild birds and rodents acting as carriers.
Aerosol transmission in poultry farms.
Incubation Period
2 to 15 days, depending on the strain and bird immunity.
Velogenic strains cause rapid outbreaks, leading to sudden deaths.
Clinical Diagnosis
Based on symptoms, mortality rate, and flock history.
Difficult to differentiate from avian influenza and other respiratory infections.
Laboratory Diagnosis
Virus Isolation: From tissue samples, feces, or throat swabs.
RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction): Confirms NDV presence.
Hemagglutination Inhibition (HI) Test: Detects NDV antibodies in blood.
Vaccination Strategies
Vaccination is the most effective method to prevent Ranikhet Disease.
Types of Vaccines:
Live Attenuated Vaccines (for young chicks)
Lentogenic strain vaccines (Lasota, F strain).
Administered via drinking water, spray, or eye drops.
Inactivated Vaccines (for adult birds)
Given through injection.
Provides longer immunity.
Recombinant Vaccines
Uses genetic engineering to develop immunity.
Biosecurity Measures
Restrict movement of birds, equipment, and farm workers.
Disinfect poultry farms regularly.
Prevent wild birds and rodents from entering farms.
Isolate new birds before adding them to the flock.
Treatment
No specific antiviral treatment.
Supportive care: Electrolytes, vitamins, and antibiotics to prevent secondary infections.
Culling infected birds in severe outbreaks.
Prevalence in India
Ranikhet Disease is endemic in India and affects poultry across states.
Outbreaks are common in Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu.
Backyard poultry farms are more vulnerable due to a lack of vaccination.
Government Initiatives
National Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDC) – Provides vaccines and veterinary services.
ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) – Conducts research on NDV and vaccine development.
Poultry Development Schemes – Promote biosecurity and disease prevention.
Ranikhet Disease remains a major challenge for poultry farmers in India and worldwide. Its economic and public health implications make it a crucial topic for UPSC aspirants. Understanding its transmission, prevention, and control measures is essential for answering questions related to agriculture, science, public health, and rural economy.
A strong focus on vaccination, biosecurity, and government policies is key to mitigating the impact of this disease and ensuring sustainable poultry farming in India.
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