Ceva Animal Health Marks 100 Years of Newcastle Disease Discovery with Global Scientific Gathering in Bogor, Indonesia

Ceva Animal Health convened international experts, partners, and industry leaders in Bogor, West Java—the birthplace of Newcastle Disease (ND)—to commemorate a century of scientific progress in controlling one of the world’s most significant avian diseases. The three‑day meeting, titled “The Guards of a Century – 100 Years with Newcastle Disease,” brought together around 100 participants from 15 countries. 

Libourne, 17^th March 2026 — Ceva Animal Health (Ceva), the world’s fifth-largest animal health company operating in 110 countries, convened international experts, partners, and industry leaders in Bogor, West Java—the birthplace of Newcastle Disease (ND)—to commemorate a century of scientific progress in controlling one of the world’s most significant avian zoonotic diseases. The three-day meeting, titled “The Guards of a Century – 100 Years with Newcastle Disease,” brought together around 100 participants from 15 countries to share knowledge, celebrate innovation, and reflect on the evolution of ND control. 

Tracing a Century of Scientific Progress 

The event opened with a keynote from Dr. Hendra Wibawa, Director of Animal Health at the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Indonesia, who highlighted Indonesia’s historical role in identifying ND in 1926 and shared the country’s journey in combating the disease.  

This was followed by a historical overview from Prof. Ian Brown, Head of the Avian Virology Group at The Pirbright Institute (UK), who revisited the earliest descriptions of ND by T.M. Doyle and examined how scientific collaboration has helped shape global control strategies.  

Joining virtually, Dr. Kiril Dimitrov of the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory discussed the evolution of ND virus classification, emphasizing the importance of adopting a standardized nomenclature to facilitate global epidemiological research and coordinated disease control efforts. 

Connecting Science, Innovation, and Legacy 

Participants visited Balai Besar Perakitan dan Modernisasi Veteriner, the historic site associated with the first identification of the ND virus. The visit offered a symbolic connection between past discoveries and scientific advancements, shaping the future of poultry health.  

The scientific program continued with insights from Dr. Atsushi Yasuda and Dr. Moto Esaki, who recounted the development journey of the pioneering HVTF vaccine—an innovation that paved the way for the creation of Ceva’s vaccine, the reference recombinant HVTND vaccine.  

Ceva’s scientific expert Prof. Dr. Vilmos Palya presented research demonstrating the strong and consistent immune responses induced by Ceva’s vaccine, while Prof. Dr. J.A. Arjan Stegeman of Utrecht University showcased evidence of the vaccine’s ability to reduce NDV transmission in commercial broilers.  

Further reinforcing the vaccine’s relevance today, Dr. Marcelo Paniago, Ceva consultant, shared extensive trial data showing its continuing protection against emerging velogenic genotype VII NDV strains—one of the major challenges currently facing poultry producers worldwide. 

A Commitment to the Next Century 

Moderated by Mustafa Seçkin Sandikli, Global Poultry Marketing Director, and Christophe Cazaban, Poultry Scientific Director at Ceva, the event concluded with a strong message about the industry’s collective responsibility to continue advancing ND control 

Reflecting on the significance of the gathering, Mustafa Seçkin Sandikli emphasized: 

“One of the most meaningful moments for me was our signature board—a symbol of appreciation for a century of scientific progress, recognition of the dedicated people behind it, and our shared commitment to the future of the poultry industry. This event celebrates not only where we come from but where we are heading together”. 

Over the past twenty years, Ceva has established itself as a pioneering force in poultry vaccination, continually advancing animal health and production under the guidance of its One Health mission. With a clear vision for the future, Ceva aims to achieve global leadership in poultry medicine and cement its position as the undisputed industry leader by 2035. 

As Ceva looks ahead, the company reaffirms its dedication to supporting producers, strengthening global food security, and driving innovation in poultry health solutions. 

About Newcastle Disease 

Learn more about Ceva’s resources on Newcastle Disease: 

🔗 https://poultrycontent.ceva.com/newcastle-disease  

🎥 Documentary link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_l5IOsFAu0  

About Ceva Animal Health 

Ceva Animal Health (Ceva) is the 5th largest global animal health company, led by experienced veterinarians, whose mission is to provide innovative health solutions for all animals to ensure the highest level of care and well-being. Our portfolio includes preventive medicine such as vaccines and animal welfare products, pharmaceutical solutions for farm and companion animals, as well as equipment and services to provide the best experience for our customers. 

With more than 7,000 employees located in 47 countries, Ceva strives daily to bring to life its vision as a One Health company: “Together, beyond animal health”. 

2025 turnover: €1.92 billion 

www.ceva.com