Two replicate experiments were carried out to verify the efficacy of Aloe species (Aloaceae) as used for the control of Newcastle
disease (ND) in rural poultry in free-range systems among several communities in Tanzania. Four months old local chickens free
of Newcastle disease antibodies were used. Following inoculation with ND virus, body weights, clinical signs, antibody levels and
mortality were monitored. Results showed that there was reduced mortality rate and the severity of clinical signs during the acute
phase of the infection in Aloe treated chickens compared with the non-treated ones. However, there was no significant effect of
the Aloe on the antibody levels that were attributed to the recovery of the surviving chickens. The findings of this study suggest
that Aloe secundiflora could be a potential candidate on the management of Newcastle disease in chickens. Further studies are in
progress to identify the active ingredients of A. secundiflora against Newcastle disease virus. © 2002 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.
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