According to the Food and Veterinary Service (PVD), the outbreak affected a flock of 36 chickens. Authorities have initiated standard containment protocols, including the culling of the affected flock and mandatory disinfection of the premises to prevent further transmission.
Why Newcastle Disease Remains a Threat to Poultry
Newcastle disease is an acute, highly contagious viral infection that targets the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems of birds. According to the PVD, the virus typically manifests through severe symptoms, including septicemia. The primary reservoir for the virus is wild birds, which can transmit the pathogen to domestic poultry through direct contact or contaminated environments.
Newcastle disease is not just a local concern. In 2025, Poland was forced to cull over 8.7 million poultry due to the rapid spread of the virus across the region.
How the PVD Manages Outbreaks
When an outbreak occurs, the PVD implements strict containment measures to protect the wider poultry population. This includes the immediate elimination of all birds on the property and the destruction of any products derived from them. The facility must then undergo a thorough cleaning and disinfection process.
However, not every outbreak triggers the same level of regional restriction. In this specific case in Tērvete, the PVD assessed the primary epidemiological data and determined that the risk of further spread is low. Consequently, the agency decided against establishing mandatory restriction zones around the affected farm, a deviation from the protocols typically used for highly pathogenic avian influenza.
The Rising Trend of Viral Outbreaks in Europe
The incident in Tērvete follows a pattern of increasing Newcastle disease activity across Europe. Similar outbreaks have been recorded in Latvia recently, including cases in Talsu Municipality in November 2025 and in South Kurzeme Municipality in April this year. Data from the PVD indicates that Germany, Poland, Spain, and the Czech Republic have reported the highest frequency of cases this year, with Lithuania also confirming an outbreak in February.
Pro Tips for Backyard Flock Owners
- Register your birds: All poultry holdings must be registered with the Rural Support Service to ensure effective monitoring.
- Verify origin: Always request official documentation when purchasing new birds to confirm their origin.
- Maintain biosecurity: Viruses can be carried on footwear, clothing, and equipment. Keep these items clean and restricted from direct contact with your flock.
- Consider vaccination: The PVD notes that preventative vaccination against Newcastle disease is a permitted and effective strategy for small-scale and commercial farms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can humans catch Newcastle disease?
Information regarding specific risks and safety measures is available on the official PVD website.
Are there buffer zones for this outbreak?
No. According to the PVD, because the risk of transmission is assessed as low, authorities have opted not to impose restrictive zones in Tērvete Parish at this time.
How can I prevent an outbreak in my coop?
The most effective defense is strict biosecurity. Limit human traffic near your birds, clean equipment regularly, and ensure your flock is registered and properly vaccinated where appropriate.
Have you implemented new biosecurity measures for your flock this year? Share your experience in the comments or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on animal health regulations in your region.
