Newcastle Disease (ND) remains one of the most impactful viral diseases affecting the global poultry industry. Caused by the Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV), it spreads rapidly and presents a wide range of clinical signs, making rapid on-site detection tools-such as the NDV Antigen Rapid Test-critical for timely intervention and disease control.

What Is Newcastle Disease?

Newcastle Disease is caused by NDV, a member of the Paramyxoviridae family. The virus varies widely in virulence and is commonly categorized into three pathotypes:

• Lentogenic (low virulence): Mild respiratory signs; often used as vaccine strains.
• Mesogenic (moderate virulence): Noticeable respiratory and systemic signs.
• Velogenic (high virulence): Severe disease with high mortality, affecting the respiratory, nervous, and digestive systems.

ND is listed by the WOAH (World Organisation for Animal Health) as a notifiable disease due to its economic and biosecurity significance.

How Does NDV Spread?

NDV is highly contagious and spreads efficiently across poultry flocks through:

• Aerosols and respiratory droplets
• Contaminated feed, water, bedding, and equipment
• Movement of people, vehicles, and tools
• Wild birds acting as carriers

Rapid identification and isolation are essential to prevent widespread outbreaks.

Common Clinical Signs of NDV Infection

Clinical signs depend on the virulence of the strain, but frequently include:

Respiratory Signs

• Open-mouth breathing, gasping
• Coughing, nasal discharge

Neurological Signs

• Twisted neck (torticollis)
• Tremors, loss of motor control

Digestive & General Signs

• Diarrhea
• Reduced appetite, depression
• Sharp drop in egg production; thin-shelled or misshaped eggs
• High mortality in velogenic infections

Why Use an NDV Antigen Rapid Test?

1. Results Within Minutes

Unlike PCR, which requires laboratory conditions, antigen rapid tests deliver on-site screening in real time.

2. Supports Immediate Decision-Making

ND can present similarly to other respiratory diseases such as IBV or AIV. Rapid antigen testing helps differentiate NDV quickly and accurately.

3. Suitable for Multiple Scenarios

• Farm-level monitoring
• Outbreak response
• Post-vaccination surveillance
• Pre-transport or quarantine checks

How the NDV Antigen Test Works

Most NDV antigen rapid tests are based on lateral flow immunoassay technology, targeting the NDV nucleocapsid (N) protein.

Collect a sample (typically a cloacal swab or tissue homogenate).

Mix with assay buffer.

Apply to the test device.

If NDV antigen is present, the labeled antibodies bind and form a visible line at the test region (T-line).

The method is simple, instrument-free, and ideal for field use.

The Value of Rapid NDV Detection

✔ Minimizes Economic Losses

Early detection enables rapid isolation and reduces flock-level spread.

✔ Strengthens Biosecurity Programs

When combined with vaccination and strict farm hygiene, rapid tests help build a comprehensive disease-prevention framework.

✔ Supports Veterinary Decision-Making

Rapid testing helps determine whether confirmatory PCR or strain typing is needed.

Conclusion

Newcastle Disease continues to pose a major challenge to the poultry industry worldwide. Beyond vaccination and enhanced biosecurity, rapid diagnostic tools such as the NDV Antigen Test play a vital role in early detection, outbreak control, and flock protection.

For more information about rapid veterinary diagnostic solutions, feel free to contact J&G anytime.