Enteric Viruses in Turkeys: A Systematic Review and Comparative Data Analysis.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Poultry Health
• Avian Pathology

Background:

• Enteric diseases significantly impact turkey production, causing morbidity, mortality, and economic losses.
• Turkey enteric complex (PEC) is a multifactorial syndrome in young turkeys, characterized by diarrhea, stunting, and poor feed conversion.
• Avian enteric viruses (astrovirus, rotavirus, reovirus, parvovirus, adenovirus, coronavirus) are key etiological agents, often acting in co-infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a systematic literature review and meta-analysis on the prevalence of avian enteric viruses in turkeys globally.
• To analyze the genetic diversity and geographical distribution of these viruses through phylogenetic methods.
• To discuss the health and production implications of PEC and propose integrated control strategies.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of avian enteric viruses affecting turkeys.
• Meta-analysis to determine the prevalence of these viruses across different global regions.
• Phylogenetic analyses to assess viral genetic diversity and geographical spread.

Main Results:

• Identified a wide regional and genetic variability among the studied avian enteric viruses.
• Demonstrated the significant impact of viral co-infections on clinical severity in turkeys.
• Highlighted the necessity for ongoing epidemiological surveillance due to observed variability.

Conclusions:

• Integrated management strategies, including biosecurity, targeted vaccination, and optimized nutrition, are crucial for mitigating PEC.
• Continuous epidemiological surveillance is essential for effective control of avian enteric diseases in poultry.
• Understanding viral genetic diversity and distribution aids in developing targeted interventions for improved poultry health and production profitability.