Development of an avian avulavirus 1 (AAvV-1) L-gene real-time RT-PCR assay using minor groove binding probes for application as a routine diagnostic tool.

Newcastle disease is a devastating disease of poultry caused by Newcastle disease virus (NDV), a virulent form of avian avulavirus 1 (AAvV-1). A rapid, sensitive and specific means for the detection of NDV is fundamental for the control of this notifiable transboundary virus. Although several real-time RT-PCR assays exist for the detection of AAvV-1, diagnostic sensitivity and specificities can be sub-optimal.