Management of Newcastle Disease (ND) Prevention in Broilers: The Role of Probiotics and Selection Criteria

Newcastle disease (ND) in chickens is one of the most detrimental viral diseases in broiler farming. Mortality rates can reach 90% in velogenic cases, and economic losses due to decreased production, culling, and treatment costs are significant. Although vaccination is the primary line of defense, modern farmers are beginning to realize that optimal gut health through probiotics can be an effective complementary strategy. This article will explore how probiotics can help prevent ND in chickens, criteria for selecting strains, and recommendations for certified products.

Why Are Probiotics Important in Preventing Newcastle Disease in Broilers?

Newcastle disease is caused by paramyxovirus serotype 1 (APMV-1), which attacks the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems. Transmission occurs through feces and droplets. In field conditions, chickens with healthy guts have better resistance to infection. Probiotics work through several relevant mechanisms:

• Competitive exclusion: Probiotic bacteria compete with pathogens (including viruses? Not directly, but by suppressing bacterial pathogens that trigger inflammation, the immune response focuses more on fighting the virus).
• Immunomodulation: Probiotics stimulate the production of mucosal IgA and Natural Killer (NK) cells, strengthening local immunity in the respiratory tract and gut.
• Improved gut barrier: Strong tight junctions prevent translocation of viruses and secondary bacteria.

Research from FAO shows that gut health management can reduce susceptibility to ND. With the right probiotics, farmers not only improve performance but also build natural defenses.

Criteria for Probiotic Strains for ND Prevention: What to Look For?

Not all probiotics are suitable for broilers. Here are the criteria that must be considered:

Strains Proven to Enhance Mucosal Immunity

Strains such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bacillus subtilis have been extensively studied. L. acidophilus lowers gut pH and triggers IgA, while B. subtilis produces enzymes and antimicrobial compounds that suppress pathogens. The product Probiotic Formula for Broilers contains both of these strains plus Bacillus coagulans, which is heat-resistant (suitable for pelleted feed).

Thermal Stability and Production Process

Probiotics for broilers must withstand pelleting temperatures (70-90°C). Bacillus strains form spores, making them heat-resistant. L. acidophilus in freeze-dried form is also stable if stored properly.

Certification and Quality Assurance

Ensure the product has certification from relevant authorities (e.g., Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture). Biosolution products have been tested free of contaminants and have registration numbers. Check the label to ensure the guaranteed CFU (Colony Forming Units) count until the expiration date.

Product Recommendation: Biosolution Probiotic Formula for Broilers

Biosolution presents Probiotic Formula for Broilers, specially formulated for broilers. Its composition includes:

• Lactobacillus acidophilus: Main lactic acid bacterium, lowers gut pH.
• Bacillus subtilis: Produces digestive enzymes and biocontrols pathogens.
• Bacillus coagulans: Heat-resistant spores, compatible with pelleted feed.

Easy application: 1 ml/L drinking water or 2 ml/kg feed. During the starter period (0-14 days), give daily; for grower-finisher, 3 times/week is sufficient. Best time is in the morning after feeding.

Measurable benefits:

• Improved FCR by 8-12% (more efficient feed).
• Increased ADG by 5-10% (faster growth).
• Suppresses populations of E. coli, Salmonella, and Clostridium.
• Reduces antibiotic use (AGP-free), resulting in 0% antibiotic residue in meat.

With a target mortality of <3% in 35 days, this product is an economical preventive solution.

How Probiotics Work to Reduce ND Risk

The mechanism of probiotics against ND does not directly kill the virus, but rather through three pathways:

1. Competition and Exclusion: Probiotics adhere to gut receptors, blocking adhesion of bacterial pathogens that can trigger inflammation and suppress immunity. With a healthy gut, the immune response to ND virus is more optimal.
2. Lactic Acid Production: Lactobacillus produces lactic acid, lowering gut pH, creating an unfavorable environment for enteric pathogens, while also stimulating gut motility.
3. Immunomodulation: Bacillus and Lactobacillus trigger production of IgA, interleukins, and interferons. Mucosal IgA is the first antibody to fight viruses in the respiratory and digestive tracts.

A study from IRRI (although focused on rice, the immunomodulation principle is similar) shows that probiotics can enhance animal resistance to viral infections.

Practical Implementation in Broiler Farms

For maximum results, integrate probiotics into the ND prevention program:

• Vaccination remains a priority: Probiotics are not a substitute for vaccines, but synergistic. Routine ND vaccination (e.g., live or inactivated vaccine) should still be carried out.
• Administer probiotics from DOC: Start from day one to build a healthy gut microflora. During the starter period, give probiotics daily.
• Combine with biosecurity management: Clean housing, dry litter, and appropriate density.
• Monitor FCR and mortality: Record performance to evaluate effectiveness.

With Probiotic Formula for Broilers, farmers can save on treatment costs and increase profits.

Conclusion

Prevention of Newcastle Disease (ND) in broilers requires a holistic approach: vaccination, biosecurity, and gut health management. Probiotics with proven strains such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bacillus subtilis, and Bacillus coagulans can strengthen mucosal immunity and suppress pathogens. The product Probiotic Formula for Broilers from Biosolution meets these criteria with official certification. For further consultation, contact the Biosolution team via WhatsApp.

FAQ

Q: Can probiotics replace ND vaccine? A: No. Probiotics are not a substitute for vaccines, but a complement. ND vaccination is still mandatory to provide specific immunity. Probiotics help enhance immune response and reduce the risk of secondary infections.

Q: How long do the effects of probiotics last after discontinuation? A: The gut microflora will return to its original state within 3-7 days after stopping. Regular administration is recommended for continuous protection.

Q: Is it safe to give probiotics together with antibiotics? A: It is best to allow a 2-3 hour interval between probiotic and antibiotic administration. Broad-spectrum antibiotics can kill probiotics. For AGP-free programs, probiotics serve as an alternative.

Q: How should probiotics be stored? A: Store in a cool (4-8°C) and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Pay attention to the expiration date.

Q: Are there any side effects of probiotics on chickens? A: Probiotics from safe strains generally do not cause side effects. At excessive doses, mild diarrhea may occur, which will resolve after dose adjustment.