30.01.2012

The Australian veterinary authorities have reported an outbreak of Newcastle disease in Melbourbe, Victoria.

The affected population consists of a spotted turtle dove and a sparrow hawk.

PMV-1 infection has been confirmed in a sparrow hawk (Accipiter cirrocephalus) in close contact with known infected pigeons in urban Melbourne. Sparrow hawks are known to feed on pigeons in Australia.

PMV-1 infection has also been confirmed in a feral spotted turtle dove (Streptopelia chinensis). In the Victorian urban environment spotted turtle doves are commonly found in close association with feral pigeons.

Occasional cases of APMV-1 in hobby and feral pigeons in Victoria continue to be reported.

The event remains limited to Victoria.