Duck Viral Enteritis

Tuesday, May 15, 2018

Duck Viral Enteritis (Duck Plague) confirmed in approximately 15 dead ducks in Onondaga County, New York since 4/27/18. DVE affects waterfowl species - ducks, geese, and swans. It is not a human health risk, and is not known to affect poultry. It is caused by a herpesvirus (anatid herpesvirus 1) and is spread through direct contact with infected birds and contaminated water, food, or feces. Signs include a bloody vent or bill area, diarrhea, ataxia, and inability to fly. Mortality rate can be up to 90%, with many acute deaths before the onset of clinical signs. This virus can persist in the environment for up to 60 days. The last major mortality event in the US from this virus was in 1994 in the Finger Lakes region of NY. Report unusual waterfowl mortality in New York to the Cornell Wildlife Health Lab.