91. We comment on enteric disorders and the condition known as "shaky leg syndrome" in other sections. But there is a further serious threat to turkey health which we cannot overlook, namely, turkey rhinotracheitis (TRT). This is an acute respiratory disease of turkeys caused by a pneumovirus which is characterised by clinical signs of coughing and sneezing, with sinusitis which can make the face look very swollen. Secondary bacterial infection, with organisms such as E.coli or Pasteurella usually follows and this can lead to high mortality.
92. TRT can sometimes precipitate the onset of other conditions such as coccidiosis, haemorrhogic enteritis and leg problems. Any enteric disease which causes diarrhoea and wet litter (see paragraphs 47-51), can have a catastrophic effect on the ability of the birds to make a full recovery. It is therefore doubly important to control, or better still avoid, TRT.
93. If a flock becomes infected, antibiotic therapy may be required at an early stage to minimise the effects of secondary infection. Additionally, good management standards, in particular to ensure good ventilation in the house, will help mitigate the effects of the disease.
94. A live vaccine is available commercially and is usually applied by spray application in the first 10 days of life. However, this is not always totally effective and some outbreaks still occur.
95. We recommend funding of more research and development to produce a safe, effective live vaccine to control TRT which is suitable for mass application and that its availability be assured.