Understanding Metapneumovirus in Poultry: What Growers Need to Know

Three years ago, many poultry growers had never heard of metapneumovirus. Today, it’s one of the most common diseases producers are discussing across the industry.

While the virus continues to evolve, strong biosecurity practices remain one of the best tools growers have to help protect their operations.

What Is Metapneumovirus?

Avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) is a highly contagious respiratory virus that affects multiple types of poultry, including broilers, breeders, layers, and turkeys. Although researchers first identified the virus decades ago, many growers only began hearing about it in recent years as outbreaks became more common across different regions.

Like many respiratory viruses, metapneumovirus spreads easily through respiratory droplets, contaminated water, direct bird-to-bird contact, and even wild birds.

Why Is It Becoming Such a Concern?

One of the biggest challenges with metapneumovirus is that it continues to change over time.

As the virus evolves, it becomes more difficult for vaccines to keep pace. By the time new vaccines become available, the circulating strains may have already changed. Rather than thinking only about eliminating the disease, the poultry industry may increasingly need to focus on managing it.

How Metapneumovirus Affects Poultry

Metapneumovirus weakens a bird’s respiratory and immune systems, making flocks more susceptible to secondary infections. Because of this, the disease doesn’t always look the same from flock to flock.

Common impacts include:

• Respiratory illness
• Swollen head syndrome (SHS) in chickens
• Rhinotracheitis in turkeys
• Reduced egg production in layers
• Increased susceptibility to additional diseases

These secondary health challenges often create the greatest economic impact for producers.

Regional Spread Makes Control More Difficult

Another concern is how easily metapneumovirus spreads within geographic regions. Once the virus becomes established in an area, neighboring farms can face ongoing exposure, making regional biosecurity more important than ever.

While highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) may receive more headlines, metapneumovirus is becoming an increasingly common challenge for many poultry producers.

Focus on What You Can Control

Although growers can’t control how the virus evolves, you can strengthen the areas you manage every day.

That includes:

• Following strict biosecurity protocols
• Changing boots between poultry houses
• Using dedicated footwear for each house when possible
• Maintaining footbaths and disinfectant stations
• Staying consistent with sanitation practices—even when disease pressure seems low

The best approach is to control the things you can control.

Consistency Is Your Best Defense

Metapneumovirus may continue to evolve, but consistent biosecurity never goes out of style. Every small step—whether it’s changing boots, disinfecting equipment, or following established protocols—helps reduce opportunities for disease to spread throughout an operation.

Staying vigilant today can help protect flock health, production, and your bottom line tomorrow.

Contact Us

If you have any questions, reach out to me at allen@southlandorganics.com. Until next time!