Avian Infectious Bronchitis (AIB) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting domestic chickens, caused by the Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV), belonging to the genus Gammacoronavirus, family Coronaviridae. It is a disease of major sanitary and economic importance for poultry farming, due to its impacts on the respiratory system, productive performance, and egg quality.
The Infectious Bronchitis virus exhibits high genetic variability, with multiple serotypes and variants, which complicates disease control. Transmission occurs primarily via the airborne route, through aerosols, as well as by direct contact between infected and susceptible birds, in addition to contaminated fomites, such as equipment, vehicles, clothing, and facilities.
Clinical signs vary according to the age of the birds, the viral strain involved, and the immunological status of the flock. In young birds, respiratory signs predominate, such as sneezing, coughing, rales, nasal discharge, and respiratory distress, with high morbidity possible. In laying hens, in addition to respiratory signs, a marked drop in egg production is observed, along with alterations in shell and albumen quality, as well as negative impact on flock uniformity.
Some strains of the Infectious Bronchitis virus may exhibit renal tropism, causing nephritis, increased mortality, and worsening of the clinical condition, especially in young birds. These manifestations reinforce the complexity of the disease and the need for constant monitoring.
Prevention of Avian Infectious Bronchitis is based on rigorous adoption of biosecurity measures, combined with strategically planned vaccination programs. Control of personnel and material traffic, proper sanitation of facilities, and adequate flock management are essential to reduce infection pressure.
Laboratory diagnosis is essential for disease confirmation and identification of circulating variants. Molecular methods, such as real-time PCR, are widely used due to their high sensitivity and specificity, enabling a rapid and accurate response to suspected outbreaks.
Continuous epidemiological surveillance, combined with constant updating of vaccination programs and early diagnosis, is essential for the control of Avian Infectious Bronchitis. These actions contribute to reducing economic losses, maintaining flock health, and ensuring sustainability of the poultry production chain.
In this context, the rapid test for Avian Infectious Bronchitis (IBV) from Bioperfectus constitutes an effective screening tool to support sanitary surveillance in poultry farms. The use of the rapid test enables agile detection of suspect birds directly in the field, especially in situations of respiratory outbreaks or abrupt production drops, allowing immediate adoption of containment measures, such as flock isolation, reinforcement of biosecurity practices, and directing samples for laboratory confirmation. Thus, the rapid test complements molecular diagnostic methods, contributing to early identification of infection, reduction of IBV spread, and strengthening of Avian Infectious Bronchitis control strategies.
