GaHV2

GaHV2 refers to Gallid herpesvirus 2, a significant pathogen primarily affecting chickens. It is the causative agent of Marek's disease, a neoplastic disease characterized by the proliferation of lymphoid cells and nerve damage. The virus is highly contagious and spreads through infected feather dander and dust. Transmission can occur directly between birds or indirectly through contaminated environments.

Marek's disease typically manifests in chickens between 3 to 20 weeks of age, although older birds can also be affected. Symptoms vary depending on the form of the disease, but common signs include paralysis or weakness in one or both legs, drooping wings, and difficulty breathing. In some cases, tumors can develop in various organs, leading to weight loss and reduced egg production. Diagnosis is usually made based on clinical signs, post-mortem examination revealing characteristic tumors and nerve lesions, and laboratory confirmation through virus isolation or serological testing.

Effective vaccination programs are widely implemented to control Marek's disease in commercial poultry operations. These vaccines, administered at hatch, significantly reduce the incidence and severity of the disease. Management practices, such as strict biosecurity measures and maintaining a clean environment, are also crucial in preventing outbreaks and limiting the spread of GaHV2. Research continues to understand the pathogenesis of the virus and to develop more robust control strategies.