NEWS: Scientists have identified Parrot Bornavirus-4 (PaBV-4) for the first time in India. The virus was detected in pet and captive psittacine birds in Assam, Karnataka, and West Bengal.

ABOUT

• PaBV-4 belongs to the Bornaviridae family and affects psittacine birds (parrots, parakeets, macaws, cockatoos, lovebirds, etc.).
• It causes Proventricular Dilatation Disease (PDD), a severe and often fatal neurological disease in birds.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

• Study tested 83 psittacine birds (2020–2024).
• Virus detected in three groups:
  • Birds showing clinical signs of PDD.
  • Birds that died of suspected PDD.
  • Apparently healthy birds.
  • Brain and proventriculus tissue samples showed higher detection rates than cloacal swabs.
• SYMPTOMS OF PDDà Weight loss, Regurgitation, Digestive disorders, Neurological signs (tremors, incoordination, paralysis), Often leads to death.

SIGNIFICANCE

• 88% of infected birds belonged to nine endangered or near-threatened species.
• Indicates the virus is more widespread than previously known.
• Raises concerns for bird conservation, captive breeding, and the pet bird trade.

KEY FACTS

• Virus: Parrot Bornavirus-4 (PaBV-4)
• Disease Caused: Proventricular Dilatation Disease (PDD)
• Affected Birds: Psittacine birds (parrots, macaws, cockatoos, parakeets, lovebirds)
• First Report in India: 2026
• States Reported: Assam, Karnataka, West Bengal