Avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) primarily causes a highly contagious acute upper respiratory tract infection in turkeys, chickens, and ducks, sometimes leading to reproductive issues. In turkeys, this infection is called turkey rhinotracheitis (TRT) or avian pneumovirus infection. In chickens, it is known as swollen head syndrome (SHS).
All Canadian laboratories (governmental, private, and academic) are required to contact the CFIA regarding the suspicion or diagnosis of an immediately notifiable disease.
aMPV is classified as an immediately notifiable disease, which in general are diseases exotic to Canada for which there are no control or eradication programs. As there is no control or eradication program, CFIA does not impose the destruction of flocks with positive sample results for aMPV. The primary consequence of a confirmed detection of aMPV for the infected flock is that it will impact the ability to certify that flock as being free from the disease in order to meet the import requirements of Canada's trading partners.
Cases in domestic poultry in Canada
Two of the 3 main genotypes of the virus have been reported:
- aMPV-B and aMPV-A (detected in Canada in 2024)
- aMPV-C (not detected in Canada)
The National Centre for Foreign Animal Disease has confirmed aMPV in the following Canadian provinces.
| Date of first detection | Province |
|---|---|
| May 7, 2024 | Ontario |
| May 23, 2024 | Manitoba |
| September 11, 2024 | Quebec |