Newcastle Disease outbreaks devastate Poland’s poultry industry

Poland’s poultry industry is facing a severe crisis as new outbreaks of Newcastle disease (ND) continue to devastate flocks across the country. Since January 2025, Poland has reported over 30 outbreaks, resulting in the loss of approximately 3.5 million birds.

David Corredor

Poland’s poultry industry is facing a severe crisis as new outbreaks of Newcastle disease (ND) continue to devastate flocks across the country. Since January 2025, Poland has reported over 30 outbreaks, resulting in the loss of approximately 3.5 million birds. This resurgence comes just months after the sector began recovering from a widespread avian influenza epidemic earlier in the year.

The most significant outbreaks occurred in late May, with one industrial farm in Mazovia province losing around 1.35 million hens. These incidents have been labeled the most severe ND outbreaks in Poland this year. The disease, caused by avian paramyxovirus serotype 1 (APMV-1), has proven particularly resilient, affecting even vaccinated flocks in regions such as Swietokrzyskie, Mazowieckie, and Lodzkie.

The Polish government has mandated vaccination for all commercial poultry farms since April 2025. Despite these efforts, the virus continues to spread, raising concerns about vaccine efficacy and biosecurity measures. Authorities have implemented strict protocols, including daily inspections, isolation from wild birds, and enhanced sanitation procedures.

Major poultry processors like Wipasz have reported significant operational disruptions. Facilities in Podlaskie province experienced supply chain breakdowns and temporary production halts, contributing to financial instability and reduced consumer confidence. The ripple effects are being felt throughout the market, with declining trust and fractured supply chains making recovery increasingly difficult.