Characterization of a herpesvirus associated with tracheitis in Gouldian finches (Erythrura [Chloebia] gouldiae).

Severe tracheitis and bronchitis were identified in two fatal cases of respiratory disease affecting a flock of Gouldian finches (Erythrura [Chloebia] gouldiae). Intranuclear inclusion bodies in epithelial cells of the upper respiratory tract were identified in samples from two birds. Electron microscopic examination showed that the inclusions consisted of viral particles consistent in appearance with Herpesviridae. Degenerate PCR primers targeting a conserved region of the herpesviral-DNA-dependent DNA polymerase were used to amplify a region of DNA isolated from tissues with lesions from each animal. Nucleotide sequencing of the PCR products yielded identical viral sequences that were distinct from known herpesviruses. An analysis of sequence homology indicated that these gene segments appear to belong to a member of the subfamily Alphaherpesvirinae.