A Century of Newcastle Disease Research: Celebrating 100 Years of Innovation at APHA

On 17 September, prominent scientists, veterinarians, and specialists in animal health from across the globe commemorated a century of research into Newcastle disease, while also contemplating the future of global disease surveillance, control, and innovation.

This hybrid event convened internationally esteemed experts from countries including the UK, Italy, Spain, Germany, Pakistan, and the United States, providing a platform to reflect on a hundred years of scientific advances against one of the most significant viral afflictions affecting poultry worldwide.

Newcastle disease has posed a substantial challenge for the global poultry industry for the past century, resulting in considerable economic losses and affecting food security, trade, and livelihoods across numerous nations. The centenary celebration offered a rare chance to evaluate the evolution of understanding surrounding the disease since its initial identification, as well as to discuss the most recent research aimed at safeguarding poultry populations today.

Insights from Leading Researchers

The event, hosted at the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) in Weybridge by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) Reference Centre for Newcastle Disease, featured presentations from distinguished researchers and disease specialists. They shared insights on the historical context of the disease, its global repercussions, and the ongoing initiatives to bolster surveillance and control measures worldwide.

Among the speakers was Professor Ian Brown from the Pirbright Institute, who provided a historical overview of Newcastle disease, having commenced his research career at APHA over three decades ago. Other notable guest speakers included representatives from the US Department of Agriculture, the University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences in Lahore, the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute in Germany, and the EU Reference Laboratory in Italy.

The presenters included Ashley Banyard, Craig Ross, Ian Brown, and Bhudipa Choudhury in person, while virtual presentations came from Christian Grund of the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Alice Fusaro of IZSVenezie, Mohammed Zhubair Shabir from the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences in Pakistan, Maria Barrios from Spain’s Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, and Richard Hepple from APHA in the UK.

Collaboration for Enhanced Understanding

Delegates were informed about the collaborative efforts between national laboratories, research institutions, and international organisations that have significantly advanced the understanding and management of Newcastle disease over the past century. Presentations highlighted ongoing research focused on improving detection methods, monitoring viral evolution, and facilitating swift responses to outbreaks, particularly in light of emerging virus variants and changing disease patterns.

The event underscored APHA’s enduring contribution to global animal health and its esteemed role as a centre of expertise in avian diseases. Researchers reflected on the agency’s active involvement in disease monitoring, provision of scientific advice, and partnerships with global collaborators to enhance poultry health and resilience against diseases.

In addition to those attending in person, the event was live-streamed on YouTube, allowing registered delegates from around the world to participate remotely.

A recording of the presentations will soon be made available. Interested individuals can request a link by emailing events@apha.gov.uk.

Looking Ahead in Poultry Health

As the poultry industry confronts new and evolving disease threats, the centenary event for Newcastle Disease offered a valuable opportunity for reflection on a century of achievements while also looking forward. The gathering reinforced the critical importance of ongoing scientific research, robust international partnerships, and effective surveillance systems to ensure the protection of animal health for future generations.

Understanding Newcastle Disease

Newcastle disease is a highly contagious viral illness that predominantly affects birds, especially poultry. The disease was first identified in 1926 by TM Doyle, a veterinarian from the Animal and Plant Health Agency, while investigating a novel disease in chickens on a farm near Newcastle upon Tyne.

Despite significant progress in the understanding and management of Newcastle disease over the past century, with the last recorded outbreak in the UK occurring in 2006, continuous vigilance, research, and international cooperation remain vital to mitigating its effects and supporting the health and sustainability of poultry populations around the globe.