Pneumovirus infections in poultry: an overrated or underestimated diseases?

Poultry industry is dynamically developing worldwide and as a result, the threat from infectious viral diseases also increases. Among them avian pneumovirus (APV) infections known as swollen head syndrome (SHS) and turkey rhinotracheitis (TRT) are of growing importance. Recently, quite rapid increase of field outbreaks allows to perceive the disease in chickens as the raising problem of epidemiology in many regions. Therefore, the basic aim of this article is to present the current scientific knowledge and recent epizootic status, based on the APV field strains detection, identification, and circulation within chicken flocks, which can help us to find the best solution and quick response in face of disease outbreak. Some of these virus strains have global range, while the prevalence of others can be limited to local geographical areas. Thus, the understanding the APV epidemiology, virus spreads and other co-infections allows to design optimal vaccination schedules to limit the disease prevalence and improve the poultry production standards. Finally, a good recognition of the APV problem at the chicken farm and efficient differential diagnosis of respiratory diseases can be a key factor for the best solutions and the quickest responses to emerging disease. Some practical solutions may help to introduce the similar and effective procedures in other regions of the world with high intensity of poultry production