Transboundary Emerging and Exotic Animal Disease/ Exotic Animal Disease Practice Exam

What symptom is most often reported when APMV-1 (Newcastle's disease) infects a human?

1. Severe headaches

2. Conjunctivitis

3. High fever

4. Only neurological symptoms

The correct answer is: Conjunctivitis

Newcastle disease, caused by Avian Paramyxovirus Type 1 (APMV-1), primarily affects birds but can also infect humans, particularly those working closely with infected birds. Among the symptoms reported in humans, conjunctivitis is the one most frequently associated with APMV-1 infection. Conjunctivitis can occur due to the virus's ability to infect the mucous membranes of the eyes. This symptom serves as a key indicator of the infection in humans, especially among poultry workers or veterinarians who may come into contact with affected birds. While other symptoms can be present, conjunctivitis stands out as the most commonly reported in human cases, highlighting the importance of awareness and protective measures when working with potentially infected birds. Severe headaches and high fever can be associated with many infections but are not specifically linked to Newcastle disease. Neurological symptoms can also occur, but they are less common and not the hallmark symptom when comparing the range of potential manifestations in humans infected with the virus. Therefore, the link between APMV-1 infection in humans and conjunctivitis is significant for understanding the presentation of this disease.