Newcastle Disease Outbreak in Germany: A Growing Concern for Poultry Industry
After nearly two decades of being disease-free, Germany is grappling with a resurgence of Newcastle disease (ND), a highly contagious viral infection affecting poultry. Confirmed in February 2026, the outbreak initially impacted a commercial turkey flock in Neißemünde, with approximately 1,000 deaths among a population of 18,000 birds 1. The re-emergence, after 18 years of disease-free status, poses significant economic, regulatory, and epidemiological challenges for the European poultry sector.
Understanding Newcastle Disease
Newcastle disease (ND) is caused by the Avian paramyxovirus type 1 (APMV-1) and spreads rapidly through aerosol transmission, fecal contamination, and contact with contaminated equipment, vehicles, and even wild birds 1. Virulent strains of the virus can cause mortality rates ranging from 70% to 100% in unvaccinated flocks. The virus primarily attacks the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems of birds.
In turkeys, typical symptoms include sudden mortality, respiratory distress, greenish diarrhea, and neurological signs like twisted necks 1. A sharp decline in egg production is likewise commonly observed.
The German Situation: A Broader Outbreak
The recent outbreak isn’t limited to turkeys. Cases of Newcastle disease have been detected in commercial poultry farms in Brandenburg and Bavaria 3. The Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut (FLI) has identified the circulating virus as Genotype VII.1.1, which is currently prevalent in Eastern Europe, including Poland and the Czech Republic 3.
Despite legally compliant vaccination programs, the virus has spread, prompting adjustments to existing strategies. An additional Newcastle disease spray vaccination has been introduced in hatcheries, utilizing a weaker vaccine to accommodate chick sensitivity. Spraying is now favored over drinking water vaccination in breeding areas, and an additional spray vaccination is being implemented before birds are moved to different stables 1. Laying farms are now recommended to vaccinate against ND every six weeks, also utilizing spraying methods.
Vaccination and Biosecurity: Key Strategies
Experts emphasize that while vaccination is crucial, it doesn’t guarantee complete protection. Dr. Anne Weissmann, a poultry veterinarian, highlights the importance of mucous membrane immunity, which is best stimulated through live vaccination via drinking water or spray 1. Traditional needle vaccinations produce high antibody levels in the blood but may not fully prevent infection.
Poultry farmers are urged to review and reinforce biosecurity measures to minimize the risk of virus introduction and spread. This includes controlling personnel contact and limiting the exchange of items between farms 3. Swab samples should be taken when introducing new pullets and tested for the ND virus to differentiate between vaccine strains and disease-causing pathogens 1.
Looking Ahead
The current situation represents a significant challenge for the German poultry industry and raises concerns about potential spread within Europe. Increased vigilance, enhanced biosecurity protocols, and optimized vaccination strategies are essential to contain the outbreak and protect poultry populations. The FLI recommends ongoing monitoring through the Radar Bulletin and the Animal Disease Notification System (TSIS) for up-to-date information on the evolving situation 3. Given the concurrent presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5, the risk to poultry and other bird populations remains substantial.