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Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD)
What is PBFD?
Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD) is a viral infection caused by a circovirus, primarily affecting parrots, cockatoos, and other psittacine birds. This virus leads to feather abnormalities and changes in beak formation. PBFD spreads through feather dust, faeces, and contaminated surfaces. The infection can be deadly in young birds and, in some cases, adult birds, as they may carry the virus without showing symptoms. As there is no specific treatment for PBFD, early detection is crucial for effective management through stringent quarantine and hygiene practices.
Sample Collection Process
To submit a sample for PBFD screening, follow these steps:
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Pluck 5-6 feathers from the bird’s chest area.
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Place the feathers in an envelope or a plastic zip-lock bag.
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Label the envelope or zip-lock bag with your bird ID (name, ring number, cage number, or other preferred identification).
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Complete the sample acceptance form and submit it along with the samples (available at the Genetech Reception or downloadable here).
You can submit the samples in person or by courier to:
Genetech
54 Kitulwatte Road,
Colombo 00800
For mail or courier submissions, place the sealed samples and completed sample acceptance form inside an envelope. We will notify you once the samples have been received.
