Infectious bronchitis virus: an overview of the "chicken coronavirus"

Abstract

Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is a highly contagious avian Gammacoronavirus that affects mainly chickens (Gallus gallus) but can circulate in other avian species. IBV constitutes a significant threat to the poultry industry, causing reduced egg yield, growth and mortality levels that can vary in impact. The virus can be transmitted horizontally by inhalation or direct/indirect contact with infected birds or contaminated fomites, vehicles, farm personnel and litter (Figure 1). The error-prone viral polymerase and recombination mechanisms mean diverse viral population results, with multiple genotypes, serotypes, pathotypes and protectotypes. This significantly complicates control and mitigation strategies based on vigilance in biosecurity and the deployment of vaccination.

Keywords: IBV; avian coronavirus; poultry.

Fig. 1.. Schematic representation of the virus and its genome [6].

Fig. 2.. Loss of cilia and lymphocytic infiltration in trachea (a), abnormal eggs (b) and nephritis (c) following IBV infection.

Fig. 3.. Schematic representation of IBV infection cycle