They compared this infection to a generalized virus infection of young budgerigars which had been recognized in the United States, Canada, Italy, Hungary, Japan, and the Federal Republic of Germany. A papovavirus infection was confirmed in 27 of the birds by using antibody tests. They proposed to place this virus into a distinct subgroup within the polyomavirus family. The aetiology of French Moult has been very well investigated throughout the years. It appeared to be a contageous viral disease caused by a member of the papovaviridae family and is designated now as the avipolyomavirus.
Runners spread the virus through feather dander, feather dust and droppings.
The infection is egg-transmitted for eggs from pairs producing affected young will also give diseased birds when fostered by pairs whose own youngsters are normal. The use of an effective disinfectant such as Vircon S is recommanded. If the disease is present in your aviary, do not sell or exhibit birds because if you do so, you will spread the disease to other fanciers. The Canadian Vet. Hepatitis und Befiederungsstorungen einhergehenden Erkrankung junger Wellensittichnestlinge Prakt.