The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) received an immediate notification on 25 January 2013.

The outbreak was initially observed on 17 January and after conducting a real-time PCR test at the National Reference Laboratory for avian influenza and Newcastle disease, the disease was confirmed on 23 January.

The causal agent of the outbreak has been identified as Paramyxovirus. According to the report, the affected population comprises poultry in backyard flocks.

A total of 1656 birds were found susceptible, out of which 358 cases and gradually, deaths were reported. The remaining 1298 birds were destroyed.

The source of the outbreak remains inconclusive.

The OIE, in conjunction with the country's concerned veterinary authorities, have applied several measures to contain the spread of the disease.

Further Reading Find out more information on Newcastle disease by clicking here.