Brazil’s Newcastle Disease Outbreak Raises Concerns Over Global Poultry Trade

Outbreak confirmed in Santa Catarina

Brazil has confirmed a Newcastle disease outbreak at a commercial turkey farm in Nova Itaberaba, Santa Catarina, on October 18, 2026. The country’s Ministry of Agriculture reported that the outbreak was detected through an epidemiological investigation and confirmed by a federal animal health laboratory recognized by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) as an international reference laboratory for diagnosis ⁽¹⁾.

The affected establishment was placed under restriction, with bird movements suspended as authorities implement containment and eradication measures.

Export restrictions highlight trade vulnerability

The outbreak has already triggered international trade measures. Mexico suspended imports of Brazilian poultry products, including poultry meat, offal, fertile eggs and day-old chicks, following confirmation of the outbreak ⁽²⁾.

These developments highlight how localized animal disease events can quickly affect international poultry supply chains, particularly when trading partners impose restrictions on products originating from affected countries.

Biosecurity remains a global priority

Newcastle disease is a contagious viral disease affecting domestic and wild birds. Rapid detection, movement controls, epidemiological investigations and effective biosecurity are essential to limiting its spread.

For poultry producers and exporters, the outbreak reinforces the importance of robust surveillance systems and transparent communication with veterinary authorities and trading partners.

Brazilian authorities have stated that poultry products subject to official inspection remain safe for consumption. Further developments will depend on disease-control progress and decisions by international trading partners ⁽¹⁾.

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