Newcastle disease has reappeared in Canada for the first time in over 50 years, with two commercial squab pigeon farms in Chilliwack, British Columbia, testing positive for the virus. The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) confirmed these are the first known cases in the country since 1973.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) was alerted to unusual bird deaths at the affected farms on May 28. Following preliminary testing for avian metapneumovirus, further analysis confirmed the presence of avian paramyxovirus type 1 (APMV-1), a strain associated with the virulent form of Newcastle disease. Genetic sequencing revealed similarities with pigeon paramyxoviruses found in Eurasia.
In response, authorities have implemented quarantines and strict movement controls at the sites. Additional containment efforts include depopulation of infected flocks, establishment of disease control zones, and enhanced surveillance within the surrounding area.
Newcastle disease is not the only concern for poultry in the region. British Columbia has been a hotspot for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) throughout the ongoing 2022–2025 outbreak. In 2024 alone, 87 commercial flocks in the province have been impacted by HPAI, including 19 in Chilliwack.
Although HPAI cases have declined with the arrival of warmer weather, the virus continues to pose a threat. The most recent confirmed case in a commercial flock occurred on May 2 in Wallace, Manitoba. A non-commercial case was also reported on May 15 in Prince Edward Island.
Globally, WOAH continues to track Newcastle disease outbreaks in other countries, including Poland, Malta, Burkina Faso, and Israel.
