Newcastle Disease vaccination in local chicken as a tool for poverty alleviation

What is Newcastle disease?

• Newcastle disease (ND) is a highly contagious, severe viral disease found worldwide that affects birds including domestic poultry.
• ND is endemic in all parts of Nigeria and is more common during the harmattan season (October –March) with the virus remaining dormant most times of the year.
• ND outbreaks commonly have mortality up to 100% (Alders, 2001).
• ND is transmitted most often by direct contact with faeces and respiratory discharge of diseases or carrier birds
• It can also be by contaminated food, water, equipment, and human clothing.

Scope of PM’s work on ND control in rural chickens

• Partner with suppliers/distributors to make available suitable ND vaccines and other veterinary products
• Support partners to develop/leverage on suitable grass root distribution channels to deliver affordable vaccines for ND along with other veterinary products
• Work with the relevant stakeholders to facilitate awareness and demand for veterinary services amongst smallholders, instituting ‘for-profit’ veterinary service delivery as a norm in rural communities
• Work with the regulatory agencies to create an enabling environment for the acquisition of relevant skills needed to deliver quality community-based animal health extension service