Avian Metapneumovirus: A Narrative Review of Biology, Epidemiology, Transmission Ecology, Diagnostics and Control with Special Reference to Africa and the Middle East

Abstract

Avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) is an important respiratory pathogen of poultry associated with respiratory disease, reproductive losses, secondary bacterial complications, and economic losses in commercial poultry systems worldwide. This narrative review summarizes current evidence regarding the epidemiology, molecular diversity, transmission ecology, diagnosis, vaccination, and wildlife–poultry interactions of aMPV across Africa and the Middle East. This literature was identified through structured searches of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect using predefined keywords related to epidemiology, molecular characterization, surveillance, wild birds, diagnostics, and vaccination. Available evidence demonstrates widespread endemic circulation of aMPV, with subtype B predominating across most investigated poultry systems. However, major heterogeneity exists among studies regarding surveillance intensity, diagnostic methodologies, molecular characterization, and reporting standards. Current evidence suggests possible involvement of wild birds in viral dissemination, although definitive reservoir competence and transmission directionality remain insufficiently established. Important surveillance gaps persist across several African and Middle Eastern countries, emphasizing the need for harmonized surveillance, subtype-matched vaccination strategies, and integrated regional monitoring.