Pigeon Paramyxovirus-1 (PPMV-1): What You Need to Know

Pigeon Paramyxovirus-1 (PPMV-1) is one of the most serious viral threats to pigeon health worldwide. A host-adapted variant of Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV), PPMV-1 is highly contagious and can cause devastating outbreaks in both lofts and wild pigeon populations.

What Is PPMV-1?

PPMV-1 is a strain of Avian Orthoavulavirus-1 that has evolved to primarily affect pigeons and doves. While it shares many characteristics with Newcastle Disease Virus, PPMV-1 is distinct in that it tends to circulate longer within pigeon flocks, often causing chronic or relapsing outbreaks. It can spread rapidly through direct contact, shared water or food, and contaminated surfaces.

Why It Matters

• High morbidity and mortality: Infected birds often develop severe symptoms, and mortality rates can be high without intervention.

• Environmental persistence: The virus can survive for extended periods on surfaces, making sanitation critical.

• Zoonotic risk: While rare, humans in close contact with infected birds may develop mild conjunctivitis or flu-like symptoms.
  

Symptoms in Pigeons

PPMV-1 affects multiple organ systems, and symptoms may vary:

• Neurological: Twisting of the neck (torticollis), tremors, incoordination

• Gastrointestinal: Greenish, watery droppings; vomiting; loss of appetite

• Respiratory: Sneezing, nasal discharge, labored breathing

• General: Lethargy, ruffled feathers, sudden death

In some cases, pigeons may show only mild signs or act as asymptomatic carriers, continuing to shed the virus.

Disease Course

Once introduced to a loft, PPMV-1 can persist for weeks to months. Birds that survive may take a long time to recover, and some may exhibit permanent neurological damage. Because the virus is shed for an extended period, even recovered birds can pose a threat to others.

Testing and Detection

PPMV-1 is an RNA virus and must be detected using RT-PCR (Reverse Transcriptase PCR). Affordable Avian Diagnostics offers a highly sensitive RT-PCR assay for this virus, which can be added to any panel or ordered separately.

• Sample type: Cloacal swab or combined oral/cloacal swab

• Turnaround time: 3–5 business days

• Price: $35 as a standalone test, or included in the Ultra Panel
  

Prevention and Control

• Vaccination: PMV vaccines (NDV-based) are available for pigeons and should be part of every flock's health plan

• Isolation: Quarantine new birds for at least 30 days and test before introducing them to your loft

• Sanitation: Regularly clean waterers, feeders, and loft surfaces
  

Summary

PPMV-1 is a dangerous, fast-spreading viral disease that every pigeon keeper should take seriously. Early testing and vaccination are the best tools to protect your flock. Affordable Avian’s RT-PCR test gives you the confidence to act quickly and decisively if exposure is suspected.

Visit the PPMV1 listing HERE to order testing or learn more about PPMV-1 protection for your birds.