Avian reovirus

Avian reoviruses (ARV) are non-enveloped, double-stranded RNA viruses. They are found in chickens and turkeys worldwide and almost all commercial poultry flocks are carriers of the virus. Although most strains are non-pathogenic, there are some which have been associated with disease, such as viral arthritis/tenosynovitis, and runting stunting/malabsorption syndrome.

Survival in the Environment: Avian reoviruses can survive for up to 10 days on feathers, wood shavings, egg shells, feed, and galvanized metal. In water, ARV can survive for up to 10 weeks.

Disinfectants which kill ARV: ARV are inactivated by 70% ethanol, 0.5% organic iodine, and a 5% solution of hydrogen peroxide.

Transmission: Avian reoviruses can be transmitted both vertically and horizontally. Most chicks become infected at an early age by the oral-fecal or occasionally the respiratory route, from infected hatch mates, environment or contaminated eggs, brooder, or incubator.