Newcastle Disease has been confirmed to have been detected in a poultry population in Malta. In immediate response, comprehensive measures have already been implemented to control and eradicate the disease from the poultry population.
Veterinary authorities are working to take concrete and immediate steps to manage the situation. These include strict controls, cleaning protocols and continuous surveillance of poultry to prevent further infection.
Newcastle Disease mainly affects poultry and transmission to humans is very rare. In the unlikely event that a person is exposed, symptoms are very mild – such as eye irritation or flu-like symptoms – and can be easily treated. There is no evidence of human-to-human transmission.
Veterinary authorities are confident that the measures taken will effectively control the situation. The public is encouraged to maintain good hygiene practices, such as washing hands after handling birds or poultry and to follow any local guidance on the handling or trade of poultry.
We appeal to the community to rely on official information and avoid the spread of misinformation. Further updates will be provided as necessary.
