The bacterium is killed in water within 4 hours at ambient temperature. It can survive in secretions from infected birds for several days at cool temperatures. Disinfectants for use in poultry facilities are fully effective at recommended recommendations. The disease in Maine was characterized also by severe respiratory distress, gasping for air, respiratory rales and coughing up blood, resembling signs similar to Infectious Laryngotracheitis. Death may occur due to blockage of the air passage through the trachea or large bronchi by blood, mucus or fibrinous exudate.
Flocks go off feed.
The egg production drops over a course of 2-3 weeks. No shell or inner egg quality problems are reported but egg size decreases. Affected birds may go into a neck or partial molt. The disease spreads rapidly through a flock and to other houses in close proximity. About 1 to 6 days.