Runting and stunting syndrome in turkeys

Veterinary Research Laboratories, Stormont, Belfast, Eire.

A syndrome resulting in increased early deaths, runting and stunting in turkeys is described in 14 flocks at six sites in Ireland. Pathological lesions included bursal and thymic atrophy and mild degenerative changes in the pancreas of the affected poults. Entero-like virus, rotavirus, reovirus and adenovirus were detected in the affected poults and there was strong circumstantial evidence of lateral transmission of an infectious agent. Depopulation and thorough disinfection of affected houses appeared to eliminate the problem.