16 August، 2026
A master’s thesis presented by Sayeghan Mohammed Taher Abdulqader “Molecular and Pathological Detection of Avian Metapneumovirus, One of the Causative Agents of Swollen Head Syndrome in Nineveh Province”
Master’s Thesis Defense
A Master’s thesis defense was held at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathology and Poultry Diseases, for the thesis entitled “Molecular and Pathological Detection of Avian Metapneumovirus, One of the Causative Agents of Swollen Head Syndrome in Nineveh Province”, presented by Sayeghan Mohammed Taher Abdulqader under the supervision of Asst. Prof. Dr. Mohammed Ghassan Saeed, on Thursday, August 6, 2026.
The examination committee consisted of the following members:
- Asst. Prof. Dr. Ahmed Mohammed Ali Al-Saydiyah – College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mosul – Chair
- Asst. Prof. Inas Sheet Mustafa – College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mosul – Member
- Lect. Dr. Omar Basim Ahmed Al-Tayyar – College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mosul – Member
- Prof. Dr. Mohammed Ghassan Saeed – College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mosul – Member and Supervisor
The study investigated the molecular and pathological detection of avian metapneumovirus (aMPV), a major causative agent of Swollen Head Syndrome (SHS) in broiler chickens in Nineveh Province. ELISA, RT-qPCR, and RT-PCR techniques were employed, along with histopathological examination and genetic sequencing, to assess the prevalence and diagnose the virus.
The results documented the first detection of avian metapneumovirus subtype B in Nineveh Province and demonstrated that RT-qPCR was the most sensitive and accurate diagnostic method. The study recommended strengthening surveillance, biosecurity, and vaccination programs, as well as conducting further studies to reduce disease spread and improve poultry health and productivity in Nineveh Province.
Following the student’s confident and scientifically rigorous defense of his thesis and the committee’s discussion and evaluation, the thesis was accepted.
Congratulations to the researcher, his supervisor, the College of Veterinary Medicine, and the Department of Pathology and Poultry Diseases on this scientific achievement. We wish the examination committee continued success.
This thesis defense contributes to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education).
