Viral arthritis is an infectious disease in poultry, such as chickens and turkeys, caused by Avian reovirus.[1] Arthritis and tenosynovitis are the main signs of Avian reovirus infection in chickens, although the virus can cause other signs.[2]
The prominent sign is swelling of the digital flexor and metatarsal extensor tendons. The hock joint itself is not so sharply affected, showing just a small amount of synovial exsudate when opened.[3]
Vaccination is the primary method used to control this disease.