Avian reovirus infections
There are several avian reoviuses isolated from chicken, turkey and other species of birds. They are associated with arthritis (tenosynovitis), respiratory signs, diarrhoea and retarded growth. These viruses have common group-specific antigens. The viral arthritis involves the synovia and tendon sheaths in 5- to 7- week-old chicken. The group-specific antigen designated as VA can be demonstrated by immunodiffusion and immunofluorescence tests. Virus isolation and demonstration of VA in tendons provide a confirmatory diagnosis. Vaccines for use in drinking water and for parenteral inoculation are available.