SEROLOGICAL ASPECTS OF AVIAN METAPNEUMOVIRUS INFECTION IN KAZAKHSTAN

Avian metapneumovirus (AMPV), formerly known as avian pneumovirus (APV) is epizootic agent of turkey rhinotracheitis (TRT) and swollen head syndrome (SHS) in turkeys and chickens. The infection primarily affects the upper respiratory tract of young birds (broilers), while also decreases egg production of adult hens. Thus, the development of infection in susceptible birds of any age can cause serious economic losses. The purpose of this study is to test serums from broilers and hens for the presence of antibodies against the avian metapneumovirus. In this series of studies 317 serum samples taken from one 1 day to 75 weeks old birds were tested. Thus, on the basis of serological tests of blood serum and of chicken flocks and broilers, we had a preliminary diagnosis on the presence of avian metapneumovirus infection. Serological studies of unvaccinated against avian metapneumovirus infection bird flocks using the ELISA method showed antibody titers on average at 22 859 +/- 4133. Avian metapneumovirus infection in birds was accompanied by a decrease in egg production of chicken flocks by 8.0 - 12.8%.