What does PHV mean in HOSPITALS

Psittacine herpes virus (PHV) is a contagious viral infection that affects several species of birds, including parrots, cockatoos and macaws. It is also known as Pacheco's Disease.

PHV is spread through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated objects and materials such as food bowls and perches. Additionally, droplets from sneezing and coughing can spread the virus from an infected bird to susceptible birds living in close proximity.

Clinical signs vary depending on the severity of the infection but may include swelling of the eyelids or wattle, nasal discharge, loss of appetite, depression or lethargy, respiratory difficulty and dehydration. Infected birds may also exhibit weight loss or beak anomalies such as overgrown beaks or widening of the spaces between their beak tips.

Yes, there are tests available to diagnose PHV including polymerase chain reaction (PCR), microscopic examination of cells found in feather follicles or swabs taken from nares or oropharynx areas of an affected bird. A blood test may also be used to detect antibodies against the virus in order to confirm an active infection or past exposure to it.

There is no currently approved vaccine for Pacheco's Disease but research is ongoing into potential vaccines that could help lessen the severity of disease if administered prior to exposure to the virus.