Duck plague

Duck plague (also known as duck viral enteritis) is a worldwide disease caused by duck herpesvirus 1 (anatid herpesvirus 1) of the family Herpesviridae that causes high mortality in flocks of ducks. It is spread through contaminated water and direct contact. Migratory waterfowl are a major factor in the spread of this disease. The incubation period is three to seven days. Symptoms include depression, loss of appetite, decreased egg production, nasal discharge, increased thirst, diarrhea, ataxia, and tremors. Most ducks that show symptoms eventually die - mortality may reach 90 percent. Vaccination for duck plague is now routine in the United States.