Newcastle Disease Spread in Europe: What Poultry Keepers Need to Recognize

Poultry producers across the UK are on high alert as Newcastle disease continues a concerning westward spread across Europe. With confirmed cases appearing in several European nations, the UK government has officially raised the risk level from low to medium. This shift reflects a heightened threat, particularly as migrating birds move across the continent between March and May.

What is Newcastle Disease?

Newcastle disease is caused by avian paramyxovirus serotype 1. It is a highly contagious virus that affects chickens and a wide range of other bird species. Given that the disease is notifiable, any suspicion of an outbreak must be reported to the authorities immediately.

Recognizing the Symptoms

The clinical signs of the virus can vary significantly depending on the bird and the strain, making rapid identification essential. Symptoms often include:

• Mild respiratory issues.
• Severe neurological symptoms.
• Sudden, high mortality rates within a flock.

Despite the severity of the disease in birds, well-cooked poultry products remain safe for human consumption.

The Current Situation in Europe

The virus has established a presence in several European countries, prompting warnings from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).

Germany and Poland

Poland has been battling Newcastle disease since September 2024. More recently, Germany reported its first case of the current outbreak on February 20, 2026. This specific case occurred at a domestic poultry farm in the district of Neissemünde, Brandenburg, located less than 1km from the border with Poland, according to a report from GOV.UK. Subsequent reports from WOAH indicate that the virus has since been found in nine additional German flocks.

Broader European Impact

Beyond Germany and Poland, confirmed cases have as well been reported in Spain. This widespread circulation has underscored the potential for the virus to enter the UK through indirect transmission routes or via wild birds.

UK Risk Assessment and Prevention

A new outbreak assessment published by Defra highlights the growing disease picture in Europe. The UK’s move to a “medium” risk level is a strategic response to the movement of wild birds, which are known vectors for the disease.

Critical Biosecurity Measures

Will Raw, the NFU Poultry board chair, has emphasized that producers cannot afford to let their guard down. To protect the national flock, bird keepers are urged to implement the following strategies:

• Strict Biosecurity: Maintaining rigorous hygiene protocols to prevent the virus from entering premises.
• Vaccination: Implementing Newcastle disease vaccinations where appropriate to build flock immunity.
• Vigilance: Monitoring birds closely for any signs of respiratory or neurological distress.

Looking Ahead

The continued spread of Newcastle disease across Europe serves as a stark reminder of the volatility of avian health. As the virus moves westward, the focus remains on containment and prevention. For UK producers, the combination of strict biosecurity and proactive vaccination is the primary line of defense in preventing a domestic outbreak.