New hens not going into Eglu Go Up

[The Dogmother]

Was having a chat with my poultry vet last night; he is seeing an increase in Marek's at the moment when birds are more stressed during the moult, Orpingtons and Silkies are most prone. He is also seeing a 'slow burn' version of the disease, which shows less typical symptoms (paralysis etc) and is much harder to diagnose; these birds are exhibiting a general malaise and inability to thrive.

 

Whilst all hybrids are vaccinated at hatching, pure breeds aren't, mainly as the vaccination is supplied and priced for 1,000 birds. Interestingly, he has started to vaccinate at risk groups/breeds on a monthly basis, or provides the vaccine (and training) for monthly injection on-site.

 

I have to say that while I don't keep any of the at risk breeds, I have only ever had one case of Marek's, which occurred during a very heavy moult and I culled the hen before she suffered.

 

Interesting information and a new tactic to consider if you're concerned I guess.

[Chortle Chook]

Thanks for that Dogmother. With my Silkies I'm always on the watch out

[Space Chick]

Having previously lost 2 Silkies to Mareks and seeing how awful an illness it is, my current 6 silkies were all vaccinated against Mareks as chicks.