At BioAssays, we are developing new faster, more sensitive, specific diagnostic methods for the identification of avian Metapneumovirus (aMPV) and in Point-of-Care format (POC) that can even be adapted to mobile devices that allow early diagnosis.

First described in South Africa, aMPV has spread worldwide and is considered an emerging pathogen. Virus attacks and kills protective ciliary cells from upper respiratory tract facilitating secondary infections that exacerbate the pathological process. Moreover, in a second phase, aMPV affects the reproductive tract reducing the number and quality of egg laying.

Animal Health constitutes an element of strategic importance, within the framework of sustainability and competitiveness of livestock production, for the increase in foreign trade in live animals and products of animal origin.

The Strategic Agenda for Research in Animal Health of the Vet+i Foundation under the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, has pointed out as a priority the improvement of diagnostic methods for aMPV infection, known as avian rhinotracheitis that affects turkeys and chickens.

Currently, it’s difficult to distinguish the disease from other respiratory diseases since the symptoms are similar, the virus persists for only a short time in the target tissue and a well-equipped laboratory is required for virus identification, so it’s essential to develop new diagnostic methods to assist in vaccination programmes worldwide that allow the virus control.