Leading scientists, veterinarians, and animal health specialists from around the world convened on 17 September to celebrate the centenary of Newcastle disease research. The hybrid event, hosted by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) Reference Centre for Newcastle Disease at APHA Weybridge, brought together experts from the UK, Italy, Spain, Germany, Pakistan, and the United States.
The event reflected on a century of scientific progress against Newcastle disease, a highly infectious viral disease primarily affecting poultry. It was first identified in 1926 by TM Doyle, a veterinarian from the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), investigating chickens near Newcastle upon Tyne.
Delegates discussed how understanding of the disease has evolved and reviewed current research aimed at protecting poultry populations. Presentations covered the disease's history, its global impact, and ongoing efforts to strengthen surveillance and control programmes worldwide.
The gathering also reinforced the importance of continued scientific research, strong international partnerships, and effective surveillance systems for protecting animal health.