Paramyxo
Paramyxo or New-Castle disease is a very widespread viral infection among pigeons. In Belgium, in case of a paramyxo-infection, you are legally bound to report this very contagious disease. Mostly pigeons during the moult, exhausted and late young are very susceptible. Not or badly vaccinated pigeons are always at great risk.
The averige duration of this affection is 1 to 3 months. After healing good flight performances are still possible. Some pigeons however may get permanent damage e.g. turned neck or watery droppings.
Clinical symptoms
- Excessive drinking
- Watery droppings
- Typical turned head
- Shock reaction
- Disturbance of balance
- Pecking next to the food
Typical turned head
Own photo
Treatment
In case of illness: no treatment – legally the disease must be reported!
We can prevent dehydration caused by the watery droppings by administering Recup-Lyt (electrolytes) in the drinking water.
As prevention:
Annual vaccination of all healthy pigeons starting after 4 weeks of age.
Important tip:
In Belgium the vaccination for paramyxo is legally required for all racing- and show pigeons.