Serological and molecular detection of avian pneumovirus in broiler chicken flocks of Guilan province

Avian pneumovirus (APV) causes upper respiratory tract infection in chickens and turkeys. APV infection in chicken flocks gives rise to considerable economic losses. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence rate of APV in broiler flocks at slaughtering ages by Elisa method and detection it as a factor in the respiratory disease by molecular method. Total of 460 serum samples from 29 broiler flocks at slaughtering ages and from clinical samples (tracheal swabs, tracheal and lung tissues) of 71 broiler chicken flocks with respiratory signs and swollen infraorbital sinuses were collected. The serological results showed that 16 flocks (%55) were positive to APV infection, RNA was extracted from clinical samples and RT-PCR based on viral N gene sequence specific primer was performed. The molecular results revealed that 17(%24) out of 71 broiler flocks were positive in the amplification of a DNA band of 115 bp. This study was the first report of APV infection in broiler chicken flocks of Guilan province. Conclusively, based on results of this study APV infection is widespread in chicken flocks of Guilan and more attention should be paid to this virus, due to its effect on chicken's performance.