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Modern methods of diagnosis and prevention of gumboro disease

Infectious bursal disease (IBD), also known as Gumboro disease, remains one of the most serious viral threats to modern poultry production, particularly in broiler and layer chickens. The disease specifically targets the bursa of Fabricius in young birds, leading to severe immunosuppression, decreased efficiency of vaccination against other common pathogens, increased susceptibility to secondary infections, deterioration of zootechnical performance, and substantial economic losses. With the growing virulence of the infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) and the emergence of new antigenic variants, conventional control strategies are often insufficient, making the implementation of advanced and integrated approaches essential. This article provides a systematic review of current IBD diagnostic methods. Molecular techniques (RT-PCR, VP1 and VP2 gene sequencing), serological tools (ELISA, multiplex assays), and combined approaches for rapid and precise pathogen detection are discussed. The advantages of using f ield-deployable rapid tests and multiplex systems for comprehensive flock monitoring are highlighted. In addition, histopathological assessment is described as an auxiliary method to evaluate the degree of tissue damage in the bursa of Fabricius. The preventive section emphasizes innovative vaccination strategies, including immune-complex and recombinant vaccines, which can provide effective protection even under conditions of circulating highly virulent strains. Furthermore, the importance of strict biosecurity measures, flock management, and the use of natural immunomodulators as supportive tools to enhance nonspecific resistance of poultry is analyzed. This review underscores the necessity of integrating high-precision diagnostic tools with f lexible prevention programs tailored to the current epizootic situation. Such a comprehensive approach can significantly reduce IBDV spread, maintain stable f lock immunity, and contribute to the sustainable development of the poultry industry.

Keywords: infectious bursal disease, IBDV, VP2, diagnostics, vaccination, biosecurity, immune-complex vaccine, poultry.

MARCHENKO V. https://orcid.org/0009-0000-1728-8969


KOLECHKO A. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8644-3616


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Scientific Journal of Veterinary Medicine 2'2025