Infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT) is an acute, highly contagious, herpesvirus infection of chickens and pheasants characterized by severe dyspnea, coughing, and rales. It can also be a subacute disease with nasal and ocular discharge, tracheitis, conjunctivitis, and mild rales. The disease is commonly known as infectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV). It has been reported from most areas of the USA in which poultry are intensively reared, as well as from many other countries.
Transmission:
Natural transmission of ILTV is through the upper respiratory and ocular routes. Transmission is via direct contact with contaminated people and equipment.ILTV can remain in biofilm of drinking water lines and subsequently be transmitted to susceptible birds.Vermin and wild birds and dogs may aid mechanical transmission.
Symptoms:
Infectious Avian Laryngotracheitis virus attacks the respiratory system once the infection takes hold. These include:
- Nasal discharge which is often bloody
- Coughing which may also include blood
- Sneezing
- Dyspnoea
- Gasping
- Upper respiratory tract pain
- Abnormal lung sounds
- Decreased egg production
