Valencian Government strengthens poultry vaccination against Newcastle disease

The Generalitat Valenciana has reinforced prevention measures against Newcastle disease by updating the poultry sanitary program for the Valencian Community. The Department of Agriculture, Water, Livestock, and Fisheries has approved modifications to the 2026 Annual Zoosanitary Plan, establishing specific vaccination guidelines for the provinces of Alicante, Castellón, and Valencia.

The goal of these measures is to increase farm protection, reduce the risk of virus spread, and preserve the sector's productive activity. The new protocols include requirements for various species and production cycles. For example, fast-growing broiler chickens must receive a minimum of two live vaccine applications via spray or powder, alongside an initial vaccination with a recombinant or vectorized vaccine. Slow-growing broilers require between three and five live vaccine applications.

For laying hens and breeder flocks during the laying period, re-vaccination with a live vaccine is required at a maximum interval of six to seven weeks. The measures apply to farms both within and outside established restriction zones and must be carried out under the responsibility of veterinary personnel.