Celebrating a Century of Newcastle Disease Research
On 17 September, a distinguished gathering of scientists, veterinarians, and animal health specialists from across the globe marked the 100th anniversary of research into Newcastle disease. This hybrid event provided a platform for experts from the UK, Italy, Spain, Germany, Pakistan, and the United States to reflect on a century of scientific advancements in combating one of the most significant viral diseases affecting poultry worldwide.
Newcastle disease has posed a persistent challenge to the global poultry industry for the past century, incurring substantial economic losses and jeopardising food security, trade, and livelihoods in various nations. The centenary celebration offered a unique opportunity to examine the evolution of understanding surrounding this disease since its initial identification, along with discussions on contemporary research aimed at safeguarding poultry populations.
Insights from Leading Experts
The event, hosted at APHA Weybridge by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) Reference Centre for Newcastle Disease, featured presentations from eminent international researchers and disease specialists. These experts shared invaluable insights into the historical context of Newcastle disease, its global ramifications, and the ongoing initiatives aimed at bolstering disease surveillance and control efforts worldwide.
Among the notable speakers was Professor Ian Brown from the Pirbright Institute, who provided a historical overview of the disease, drawing on his extensive 30-year research experience at APHA. Additional contributions came from guest speakers representing the US Department of Agriculture, the University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences (UVAS) in Lahore, the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute in Germany, and the EU Reference Laboratory in Italy.
Presenters included both in-person participants such as Ashley Banyard, Craig Ross, Ian Brown, and Bhudipa Choudhury, as well as virtual contributors like Christian Grund from the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Alice Fusaro from IZSVenezie, Mohammed Zhubair Shabir from the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences in Pakistan, and Maria Barrios from the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries in Spain. Richard Hepple represented APHA in the UK.
Collaboration and Research Innovations
Delegates were informed about the significant progress made through collaboration among national laboratories, research institutes, and international organisations, which has enhanced the understanding and management of Newcastle disease over the past century. Presentations highlighted cutting-edge research aimed at improving detection, monitoring viral evolution, and facilitating rapid responses to outbreaks, particularly in light of emerging virus variants and shifting disease patterns.
The event underscored APHA’s enduring contributions to global animal health and its status as a recognised centre of expertise for avian diseases. Researchers reflected on the agency’s vital role in disease monitoring, providing scientific guidance, and collaborating with international partners to enhance poultry health and resilience against diseases.
In addition to attendees present at the venue, the event was streamed live on YouTube, allowing registered delegates worldwide to participate remotely. A recording of the presentations will soon be made available; those interested in accessing it can request a link by emailing events@apha.gov.uk.
Looking to the Future of Poultry Health
As the poultry industry navigates new and evolving disease threats, the centenary event for Newcastle Disease served as a valuable reflection on a century of achievements while also providing a forward-looking perspective. The gathering highlighted the critical importance of ongoing scientific research, robust international partnerships, and effective surveillance systems in safeguarding animal health for future generations.
Understanding Newcastle Disease
Newcastle disease is a highly contagious viral infection primarily affecting birds, particularly poultry. The disease was first recognised in 1926 by TM Doyle, a veterinarian from the Animal and Plant Health Agency, who investigated a novel ailment in chickens at a farm near Newcastle upon Tyne.
Although significant strides have been made in understanding and controlling Newcastle disease over the past century—with the last outbreak recorded in the UK in 2006—continued vigilance, research, and international collaboration are essential to mitigate its impact and ensure the health and sustainability of poultry populations globally.