Newcastle disease hits Malaysia egg farms, affecting supply in Singapore

Ng Lian Cheong Channel NewsAsia 19 Oct 10;

SINGAPORE : Chickens in some farms in Malacca and Johor have been affected by the Newcastle disease - a viral disease that causes chickens to lay smaller-than-usual eggs.

And this has affected supply of eggs in Singapore. Compared to a month ago, there has been a decrease in egg imports by about 1.5 million or 7 per cent.

Singapore's Eggs Import and Export Trading Association said prices for eggs have also increased three cents.

Demand is also higher for larger eggs.

Newcastle disease is a contagious bird disease and is more common in Southeast Asia. Its effects are most notable in domestic poultry due to their high susceptibility.

According to the association, although the chickens are slowly recovering from the disease, the production of eggs has not gone up as quickly.

The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) is monitoring the situation. - CNA /ls